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MSA Safety

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FY2006 Annual Report · MSA Safety
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The Safety Company
Annual Report 2006

The Mission,Vision and Business of MSA

Our Mission

The Business of MSA

That men and women may work in

safety and that they, their families

and their communities may live in

health throughout the world.

Our Vision

MSAis in the business

of developing,

manufacturing and selling innova-

tive and sophisticated products that

enhance the safety and health of

workers throughout the world.

Critical to MSA’s mission is a clear

understanding of customer processes

and safety needs. MSA dedicates

significant resources to research

To be the leading innovator and

which allows the company to develop

provider of quality safety and

instrument products and services

a keen understanding of the customer safety requirements for a diverse

range of markets, including the fire service, homeland security, construction,

public utilities, mining, chemical, petroleum, HVAC, hazardous materials

remediation, military and retail. MSA’s principal products, each designed to

that protect and improve people’s

serve the needs of these target markets, include respiratory protective

health, safety and the environment.

To satisfy customer needs through

the efforts of motivated, involved,

highly trained employees dedicated

to continuous improvement in quality,

service, cost, value, technology

and delivery.

equipment, thermal imaging cameras, gas detection instruments, ballistic

protection, as well as head, eye, face, hearing and fall protection products.

MSA was founded in 1914 by John T. Ryan and George H. Deike, two

mining engineers who had firsthand knowledge of the terrible human loss that

was occurring in underground coal mines. Their knowledge of the mining

industry provided the foundation for the development of safety equipment to

better protect underground miners. While the range of

markets served by MSA has expanded greatly

over the years, the founding philosophy of

understanding customer safety needs and

designing innovative safety equipment

solutions remains unchanged.

MSA is headquartered in Pittsburgh,

Pennsylvania, with operations employing

4,900 associates throughout the world.

A publicly held company, MSA’s stock

is traded on the New York Stock

Exchange under the symbol MSA.

Financial Highlights

For The Year (thousands, except per share)

2004

2005

2006

Net sales

$852,509

$907,912

$913,714

Net income

71,047

81,783

63,918

Basic earnings per common share

1.91

2.24

1.76

At Year End (thousands)

Total assets

$734,110

$725,357

$898,620

Annual Sales by Product Group

15%

12%

24%

24%

25%

Head Protection
(Helmet, Eye, Face & Hearing)

Air-Supplied Respirators
Instruments
Air-Purifying Respirators
Fall Protection and Other

Annual Sales by Region

10% 6% 5%

24%

Working capital

270,593

246,367

289,424

55%

Common shareholders’ equity

376,679

381,470

436,926

Common Stock (thousands)

Shares outstanding

37,341

36,546

36,015

Market capitalization

$1,893,208

$1,323,330

$1,319,965

North America
Europe
Asia & Pacific Rim
Africa
South America

Sales

Net Income

$913.7

$907.9

$81.8

$852.5

$71.0

$63.9

04

05

06

04

05

06

M S A 2 0 0 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T

1

To Our Shareholders

In 2006, MSA Europe achieved its best year in company history.
Pictured with MSA chairman and CEO John T. Ryan III are members
of MSA Europe’s leadership team, including, from left to right,
Alan DiGiovanni, Thomas Muschter, Mathieu Tijskens, Frank Mak,
Stefan Zloczysti and James Baillie, president of MSA Europe.

In reviewing this letter from last year’s report, I was struck by

how many of the business factors and trends we see now remain

consistent with what we have said a year ago and noted in
communications since.

MSA has been the global leader in sophisticated safety equip-
ment and we enhanced our position during this decade. Looking at
the big picture, MSA’s core industrial business worldwide, beyond
the U.S. fire service and the U.S. military, has grown consistently
during recent years and this continued in 2006, driven by our
making long-term improvements in our business processes. During
this period, our fire service sales grew very well. As has been
frequently reported, our total business was turbo charged in the
period 2002 to 2004 by exceptional business in protective prod-
ucts to the U.S. military and in commercial Homeland Security
gas masks. We always knew that these two businesses would be
volatile and we have had a plan for a transition to a more normal
business mix which we communicated over the last year. Most of
this transition happened in one year – 2006 – in which our U.S.
military business fell by more than $60 million, over 50 percent,
due to the completion of a number of contracts and the U.S.
Government’s decision to split evenly the Advanced Combat
Helmet (ACH) contract among multiple suppliers.

Our rather audacious objectives in this transition year of 2006
were, in spite of the above challenges, to reach a sales and oper-
ating profit level (less adjustment for accounting changes and
restructuring costs) higher than that of 2005, even if just a small
increase, by significantly growing our business in other areas.
The disappointment of 2006 as a company was that, on a qualita-
tive basis, “we almost made it.” Indeed many of the goals in this
transition year were accomplished. We actually did grow our sales,
but we fell short on earnings due primarily to the timing of the
U.S. Federal Government funding of the U.S. fire service.

We did gain significant sales growth in two-thirds of our global

business – that is everything except the U.S. fire service, the
U.S. Homeland Security gas mask market, and the U.S. military.

2

M S A 2 0 0 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T

In 2006 MSA achieved strong double digit percentage growth in
sales, and for the most part met our goals, in these key areas:

• the industrial business of our U.S. National Sales Force;
• the balance of our commercial sales efforts in North America;
• MSA Europe; and
• MSA International (with the help of Select PPE, a strategic
acquisition in South Africa that expanded considerably as
part of MSA in 2006.)

Instrument sales lead our North American business growth, and

industrial head protection, with the industry leading V-Gard
Helmet, was a strong contributor.

In particular, MSA Europe stepped into the breach and provided

excellent growth to gain our best year there since the fall of the
Berlin Wall. Our domestic sales in Germany were solid and well
above plan. Eastern Europe business showed strong expansion
and our plan was exceeded in each of the other regions of the
continent. Fire service sales in Europe were also quite good,
with breathing apparatus and fire helmets being well over plan.
MSA sales also grew particularly well in China, Southeast Asia
and Mexico.

The company brought out telemetry capabilities in our breathing

apparatus; a new generation of Thermal Imaging Camera – the
Evolution 5200 HD; successful new instruments such as the Altair
Single Gas Portable Instrument; and the latest generation of the
SAFESITE Multi-Threat Detection System. MSA also was a major
participant in the first large production contract of the Mask 2000,
the new standard gas mask for the German military. In the U.S.,
we are now beginning work on a distinctive new breathing appa-
ratus for the United States Air Force.

Operating costs of the company were mostly on plan with the

exception of a few special one-off issues. We were challenged
because the areas in which we gained much of our sales growth
were areas in which we are developing the market and these
require higher than the average amount of selling and other
supportive costs. The areas where our sales fell were those in
which our marginal selling expenses are lower.

Safety is our middle name, and I was very pleased that our
Murrysville factory received the prestigious VPP Star Award from
the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration for our
safety program in this important factory. Our Global Manufacturing
Council was our Process of the Year by its efforts to spread best
practices throughout the manufacturing elements of the company.
Project Outlook, which was the consolidation of our Instrument
and Safety Products Divisions in the U.S., and a voluntary retire-
ment program to reduce overall costs, went exceptionally well.
We also welcomed to the company the people of Paraclete
Armor and Equipment of St. Pauls, N.C. Paraclete enhances our
capabilities in ballistic vest protection for the military and law
enforcement market. Paraclete has a distinctive business with the
U.S. Special Forces – an area of growing importance in the U.S.
military strategy – and is located close to Fort Bragg, N.C., where
I spent a year and a half in my past life as a U.S. Army officer.
During the year, company management completed a five-year
strategic plan, which was reviewed and approved by the Board of
Directors. The establishment of a new sales operation in Egypt
makes this the 40th country in which MSA has operating compa-
nies or sales representative offices. Egypt is one of the oldest
civilizations on Earth so it was about time that we got there.

Even with all of this progress, we unfortunately did not make

our earnings goals. The major factor that made the difference
was the substantial delay in the release of U.S. Assistance to
Firefighter Grants (AFG) funding, both directly and because its
delay causes many municipalities to hold their own spending in

the hopes that they would get money from still-open AFG requests.
The impact on our business in 2006 was significant as only about
half of the appropriated funds were released by calendar year end.
While our U.S. military business declined from 2005 to 2006, we
had a plan to overcome this by sales growth elsewhere. But on a
net basis, the shortfall of sales to the U.S. fire service and the
resulting impact on factory burden coverage caused us to miss
our goals. This, along with the cost of restructuring, particularly
Project Outlook, which was necessary for our future well being,
and the accounting charge that required the expensing of stock-
based compensation, were the main factors in the actual pre-tax
earnings decline from 2005.

Our outlook for the year 2007 is that we want to complete the

transition that we had hoped to finish in 2006. We will once
again count on the strength of the broad cross section of our
business – about two thirds of our sales that are in areas in
which we have consistently done well in the decade – that is
our North American industrial business and consumer business,
MSA Europe and MSA International. We have taken more steps
to reduce our cost of operations. Our initiatives over recent years
have enabled us to produce more products with less floor space.
Project Magellan, which was recently announced, will enable us to
concentrate our manufacturing work in fewer sites and reduce our
expenses, while we make the maximum effort to help the indi-
vidual associates involved. In particular, the company expects to
begin the consolidation of our two facilities in Mexico at a new
plant in Querétaro. We are also beginning work on a new facility
in China, primarily to serve that strongly growing market, and our
expanding business in the rest of our International operations.
Most of the benefits of these manufacturing projects will be
realized in 2008 and beyond.

As you can expect, during this time of transition we will
continue to be very careful with our expenses worldwide, while
continuing to appropriately fund the important programs in new
product development. Our objective in 2007 is to get back on the
positive track, to increase sales and make a strong rebound in
earnings to get us to earnings levels above that of the previous
record of 2005. Once we achieve this, we would look forward to
returning to a stable growth record going forward.

The major imponderable in the business in 2007 is the timing
of the U.S. fire service business. There are six major factors here
which, for the most part, reflect the timing of business and not
their ultimate achievement. About half of the U.S. Federal
Government AFG funding expected in calendar year 2006 has
slipped until the first half of 2007. Should the AFG program
return to its previous time parameters, we could have in the
calendar year 2007 about a year and a half worth of normal
funding, completing last years’ and fully doing the current one.
This, however, is dependent on whether or not there will be a
third year of delays in AFG funding. Additional factors are the
proportion of AFG grants going to personal protective equipment,
the amount U.S. municipalities will spend from their own
budgets, MSA’s market share (of which I am confident), the
impact of the new National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
standard for breathing apparatus, which must be met by all U.S.
manufacturers by August 31, 2007, and the question of whether
our customers would prefer to buy breathing apparatus in the U.S.
according to current NFPA standards, for which we could sell
product for the first eight months, or, whether they would like to
buy equipment according to the new standard for shipment in the
last third of the year. To solve this latter dilemma, MSA is offering
its customers the best of all worlds – the MSA Promise Program.
In this way, customers can buy new needed equipment now

Newly elected President and Chief Operating Officer William M. Lambert,
left, with John T. Ryan III.

according to the current standard, and then we will upgrade them to
the new standard once upgrade kits are approved and available.

Thus, I have strong confidence that the funding and the desire

of U.S. fire service customers for breathing apparatus product
in an 18-month period from January 2007 until June of 2008
(when currently appropriated AFG funding for 2007 needs to be
released) will be good. What we do not know is when, during this
18 month period, most of the business will be placed. Going
forward, there is a historical pattern that revenue from the fire
service goes up in the year or two following a new NFPA standard.
Our goals in 2007 are to keep up our growth in the two-thirds

of our business that has done well in recent years, including
2006, to handle the short term volatility in the U.S. fire service,
to reach our sales objective in military protective products and to
carefully watch our costs so as to generate sales and earnings
that would be new records for the company.

I am pleased to announce the recent election of Mr. William M.
Lambert as President and Chief Operating Officer of the company.
Bill has excelled in his 25 years with the company in product
design (inventing the Quick-Fill System – a key patented product
for MSA), product management, division management and for the
last four years as President of MSA North America. I look forward
to working with Bill in his new role.

It is often said in sports that the way to handle a disappointing

end to a winning streak is to go right out there in the next game
and start a new winning streak all over again, and that is what we
are about in the year 2007. We have confidence in our business
and are investing in plants, new products and people to build it
over the years to come.

John T. Ryan III
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

M S A 2 0 0 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T

3

The Year In Review

FIFA World Cup
Security personnel charged with safeguarding the
2006 FIFA World Cup relied on MSA technology
to monitor a variety of safety-related conditions
and data.

Expansion in China
In 2006, MSA expanded breathing apparatus
production in China to meet the growing needs of
the Chinese fire service.

4

M S A 2 0 0 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T

I n 2006, MSA’s growing global portfolio of

businesses and safety products helped the
company achieve solid results despite chal-
lenging market conditions in North America
as MSA Europe and MSA International
achieved record sales.

MSA achieved robust growth in many key
global markets, completed strategic acquisi-
tions in North America and South Africa to
position the company for further growth,
and launched innovative products that are
meeting the ever-changing needs of
customers around the world.

At the same time, MSA implemented a
strategic reorganization initiative in North
America to enhance its operational excel-
lence and its future performance as the
world’s foremost provider of sophisticated
safety products and systems.

The following is a snapshot of some of
our most notable achievements in 2006.

European and International Markets
Drive Revenue Growth
MSA Europe and MSA International

reported record sales in 2006, with

double-digit growth in many countries.

Sales in Europe rose 21% to $219.2

million from $180.5 million a year

earlier. Delivering its best year in

company history, MSA Europe achieved

these record sales through higher ship-

ments of breathing apparatus in Western

European markets, strong sales growth in

Eastern and Central Europe, and several

successful new product launches. MSA

Europe also got a boost from the FIFA

World Cup Soccer matches and the

2006 Winter Olympic Games, both of

which used MSA products such as the

TecBOS.solutions Software Package and
the Ultima® XE Monitoring System,
respectively, to enhance safety and secu-

rity at these high-profile sporting events.

Sales at MSA International rose 19%

to a record $191.1 million from $160.9

million, reflecting the positive impact of

the Select PPE acquisition in South

Africa, sharply higher sales in China and

Chile, and in two promising new markets:

Indonesia and Malaysia. Five affiliates of

MSA International recorded growth of

more than 20%. During the year, MSA

International also opened its first office in

Egypt to pursue growth opportunities there.

In North America, sales dipped 11% to

$503.4 million from $566.5 million a

year earlier due to challenging military

market conditions and delays in Federal

fire service funding. However, MSA

instrument sales continued a multi-year

growth trend with sales increasing more

than 20% for the year. In particular, MSA

North America benefited from higher sales

of gas-detection instruments such as the
Altair® and Solaris® Series of handheld
instruments and strong demand for
MSA’s SAFESITE® System, an advanced
detection-and-warning system that

was deployed at several high-profile

events, including the Super Bowl, Major

League Baseball’s All-Star game and

the NCAA Men’s Final Four Basketball

Championship.

Innovation Drives Major Contract Wins
In North America, the U.S. Air Force

awarded MSA a $36 million contract in

February 2006 to develop and supply a

new versatile respiratory protection system

for air base firefighters. It was the first mili-

tary contract for a product based on MSA

innovations in self-contained breathing

apparatus for the fire service. The new

system will protect Air Force personnel

from a wide range of chemical, biological,

radiological and nuclear contaminants.

2006 Winter Olympics
Underneath the bobsled venue of the 2006 Winter Olympics in Torino, Italy, MSA’s Ultima® XE
Monitoring System was on guard keeping an eye out for potentially hazardous refrigerant leaks.

In Europe, MSA won a $9.3 million

contract from the German military to

Acquisitions Offer Growth Opportunities
MSA acquired Paraclete Armor and

supply a new gas mask system for air,

Equipment of St. Pauls, N.C. in September,

ground and naval personnel. Under the

contract, MSA will produce 50,000 masks

and furnish filters, protective lenses and

expanding the company’s line of advanced
ballistic body armor products while
enhancing its ability to pursue new sales

spare parts. The gas mask protects users

opportunities in both the global law enforce-

from nuclear, biological and chemical

ment and military markets. Paraclete is a

threats and meets new performance speci-

leading maker of advanced ballistic body

fications developed in cooperation with the

armor for customers including the Special

German military.

Forces units of the U.S. military.

In South Africa, MSA landed a $2.1 million

order from Anglo Platinum Amandelbult

to supply mine safety products. Other major

contracts included a $2.3 million order

from the Australian Navy for the LifeGard III
Escape Breathing Apparatus and a $1.1

million order in Brazil for fire service

equipment.

Altair ® Series Gas Monitors
The Altair Series of single gas monitors features
sensor options for carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide
and oxygen that operate for more than two years. This
long life cycle, combined with MSA dependability,
made the Altair monitor a key element of MSA’s
strong instrument sales performance in 2006.

Building Ballistics
MSA’s acquisition of Paraclete Armor and Equipment
significantly enhances MSA’s presence and brand
in the global military and law enforcement markets.

Connecting With Customers
Around the world, MSA invested in training
programs to enhance business performance and,
in many cases, put MSA managers in the shoes of
the customer. Below, members of MSA Europe’s
leadership team participate in required fire protec-
tion and safety training in Dortmund, Germany.

M S A 2 0 0 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T

5

The Year In Review

SavOxCap Self Rescuer
Introduced in the fourth quarter of 2006, MSA
Europe’s SavOxCap 60 SCSR is the only hood-style
Oxygen Self Rescuer to provide a full 60 minutes
of service time.

High Definition Imaging
With the introduction of the Evolution ®5200HD
Thermal Imaging Camera, MSA reaffirmed its
position as the leading innovator in TIC technology.

6

M S A 2 0 0 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T

In South Africa, to create a platform for

F1 SF fire service helmet and

further growth, MSA formed a joint venture

the SavOxCap 60 SCSR – a new hooded

in January 2006 with Mineworkers

self-rescuer that provides a 60-minute

Investment Company. The joint venture

oxygen supply for underground emergencies.

then acquired Select Personal Protective

Equipment (Select PPE), a growing oper-

ator of safety supply stores serving the

South African mining industry.

New Product Pipeline

Committed to Operational Excellence

At the beginning of 2006, MSA North

America implemented “Project Outlook,”

a strategic initiative to create a more

streamlined and customer-focused busi-

MSA continued to introduce new and

ness in North America. The reorganization

innovative products to protect the health

plan aligned the company’s resources with

and safety of customers around the world.

strategic priorities in North America while

In North America, MSA launched the new

consolidating the business and support

Altair Series of single gas detectors and

functions of the former Safety Products

the SAFESITE Sentry Detector, a perma-

and Instrument Divisions and their

nent instrument that provides enhanced

management to form one integrated team

capabilities with radiation protection,

– MSA North America – with the added

wireless communication and broader

benefit of achieving at least $4 million in

capabilities for toxic gas detection.

annual cost savings.

Other product launches included:

• The Defender® Integrated Visor – the first

integrated, optically corrected visor for

traditional-style fire helmets worn in the

United States;

• The SmoothDomeTM Industrial Helmet –

a low-cost polyethylene helmet for

private labeling with large MSA

distributor channel partners;

• The Category Leading Evolution® 5200HD

(High Definition) – a superior thermal

imaging camera with enhanced picture

quality display; and

• The WorkmanTM Line of Fall Protection

Products – which provides construction
personnel with broad new choices in fall
arrest and prevention devices.

In the third year of its transformation

plan, MSA International continued taking

steps to enhance its operations and

processes. A major focus in 2006 was the

implementation of lean manufacturing

through Demand Flow® Technology at its

manufacturing sites to shorten cycle

times, improve productivity and efficiency,

enhance inventory turns and deliver

greater consistency in its manufacturing

processes. MSA International also

launched an information technology initia-

tive that will significantly enhance infor-

mation sharing while fostering a truly

integrated business approach across all of

its affiliates. To drive the transformation,

MSA International accelerated its focus

on integration and teamwork by bringing

After launching more than 20 products in

together more than 380 associates

2005, MSA Europe continued to innovate

from operations, finance, IT, sales and

in 2006, introducing several new products

marketing at six conferences that were

while shifting its focus to manufacturing

dedicated to empowering their participa-

excellence to meet the growing demand

tion in the transformation.

for MSA products. Key product launches,

which solidified MSA Europe’s reputation

In Europe, MSA established Centers of

as the leader in safety technology,

Excellence encompassing engineering,

included a new version of its best-selling

manufacturing and product management

at its facilities in Germany, France and

success of its global growth strategy and

Sweden. At the same time, lean manufac-

strategic initiatives that have – and will

turing efforts improved production rates,

continue – to transform the company.

resulting in lower costs and higher output.

Across its balanced portfolio of global

businesses, MSA is enhancing its produc-

Overall, MSA took action in 2006 to

tivity, performance, processes and prod-

strengthen the company in North America

ucts with a focus on what matters most –

as it achieved record sales at MSA Europe

delivering value and protecting the health

and MSA International that reflected the

and safety of MSA customers worldwide.

Investor Relations
In 2006, MSA hosted its first Investors’ Day at
its Cranberry Woods campus near Pittsburgh.
The one-day event provided more than 20 key
investors and analysts with an informative, first-
hand look at the company’s mission, operations,
management depth and growth strategy.

Building Technology Leadership

To build relationships that
will accelerate MSA product
innovation and technology
development, the company

held a special event in cooperation

with NASA and

Penn State University.
Called “MSA Technology
Infusion,” the conference helped
MSA identify nine companies as
potential technology partners.

Excellence in Safety
Being a leader in safety means practicing what
you preach. In 2006, MSA’s manufacturing
facility in Murrysville, Pennsylvania was recog-
nized as being one of the safest in the United
States by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration. From left to right are Murrysville
Plant Manager Steve Protzik, Acting Deputy
Administrator for OSHA Marie Cassady, President
and Chief Operating Officer Bill Lambert,
Murrysville associates Jeremy Sowers and Bob
Martin, and Director of Pittsburgh Operations
Joe Murray.

M S A 2 0 0 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T

7

MSA Form 10K

8

M S A 2 0 0 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T

Principal Operations / Directors & Corporate Officers

North America
Mine Safety Appliances Company

Board of Directors
John T. Ryan III (1)

Corporate Headquarters – Pittsburgh, Pa.
Manufacturing – Bowling Green, Ky; Clifton, N.J.;

Cranberry Twp., Pa.; Englewood, Co.; Evans City, Pa.;
Jacksonville, N.C.; Murrysville, Pa.; Newport, Vt.;
St. Pauls, N.C.; Sparks, Md.

Research – John T. Ryan Memorial Laboratory,

Cranberry Twp., Pa.

MSA Canada, Toronto; MSA Gallet, Quebec
MSA de Mexico, S.A. de C.V., Mexico City

Europe
MSA Europe (Headquarters), Berlin, Germany
Aritron Instrument A.G., Forch, Switzerland
MSA-Auer Almay, Almaty, Kazakhstan (Service Center/Office)
MSA-Auer, Berlin, Germany
MSA-Auer, Czech, s.r.o., Ostrava, Czech
MSA-Auer GmbH, Czech o.z., Praha, Czech (Service Center)
MSA-Auer Polska Sp. z o.o., Warsaw, Poland
MSA-Auer Poznan, Poznan, Poland (Service Center)
MSA-Auer Hungaria Safety Technology, Budapest, Hungary
MSA-Auer Kiev, Kyiv, Ukraine (Representative Office)
MSA-Auer Miskolc, Tiszaujvaros, Hungary (Service Center)
MSA-Auer GmbH Romania, o.z., Bucuresti, Romania (Branch)
MSA-Auer Petrosani, Petrosani, Romania (Service Center)
MSA-Auer Moscow, Moscow, Russia (Representative Office)
MSA-Auer Sicherheitstechnik Vertriebs GmbH, Absdorf, Austria
MSA-Auer GmbH, Slovakia o.z., Pezinok, Slovakia

(Service Center)

MSA-Auer Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland (Service Center)
MSA Belgium, N.V., Lier
MSA (Britain) Limited, Glasgow
MSA Española, S.A., Barcelona
MSA de France, Chatillon sur Chalaronne
MSA Gallet, Chatillon sur Chalaronne, France; Mohammedia,
Morocco
MSA Italiana S.p.A., Milan
MSA Nederland, B.V., Hoorn
MSA Nordic, Malmo, Sweden
MSA SORDIN AB, Varnamo, Sweden

International
MSA de Argentina S.A., Buenos Aires
MSA (Aust.) Pty. Limited, Sydney
MSA (Australia), Auckland, New Zealand (Branch Office)
MSA do Brasil Ltda., São Paulo
MSA de Chile Ltda., Santiago
MSA Egypt, Cairo
MSA Hong Kong Limited, Hong Kong
MSA (India) Limited, Calcutta
MSA Indonesia, Jakarta
MSA Japan Ltd., Tokyo
MSA Safety Malaysia Snd Bhd, Kuala Lumpur
MSA Middle East, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
MSA del Peru S.A.C., Lima
MSA S.E. Asia Pte. Ltd., Singapore
MSA Zimbabwe (Pvt.) Limited, Harare
Samsac Holding (Pty.) Limited, Johannesburg
Wuxi-MSA Safety Equipment Co., Ltd., Wuxi, China

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company

Robert A. Bruggeworth

President and Chief Executive Officer, RF Micro Devices, Inc.
(high-performance radio systems and solutions for applications
that drive mobile communications); Director, RF Micro Devices,
Inc.; and Director, Light Path Technologies, Inc.

Calvin A. Campbell, Jr. (2) (3) (4)

Goodman Equipment Corporation, retired (2003); formerly Chairman,
President and Chief Executive Officer, Goodman Equipment
Corporation (mining and tunneling locomotives); Eastman Chemical
Company (NYSE), Director 1994-2005; Cyprus Amax Minerals
Company (NYSE), Director 1985-1994, Chairman 1991-1992;
National Association of Manufacturers, Chairman 1998-1999,
Honorary Vice Chairman for Life, 2001

James A. Cederna (2) (3) (4)

Owner and President, Cederna International, Inc. (executive coaching)

Thomas B. Hotopp (1) (4)

Retired (2003); formerly President of the Company

Diane M. Pearse (2)

Chief Financial Officer, Crate and Barrel (home furnishings retailer)

L. Edward Shaw, Jr.

Senior Managing Director, Richard C. Breeden & Co. (multi-discipli-
nary professional services firm); Director, HealthSouth Corporation

John C. Unkovic (3) (4)

Partner and General Counsel, Reed Smith LLP
(full service law firm)
Thomas H. Witmer (1) (2) (3)

Retired (1998); formerly President and Chief Executive Officer,
Medrad, Inc. (manufacturer of medical devices)

(1) Member of Executive Committee
(2) Member of Audit Committee
(3) Member of Compensation Committee
(4) Member of Nominating and Corporate

Governance Committee

Officers
John T. Ryan III

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

William M. Lambert

President and Chief Operating Officer*

James H. Baillie

Vice President; President, MSA Europe

Joseph A. Bigler

Vice President

Kerry M. Bove

Vice President
Rob Cañizares M.

Vice President; President, MSA International

Ronald N. Herring, Jr.
Vice President
Douglas K. McClaine

Vice President; Secretary and General Counsel

Stephen C. Plut

Vice President

Paul R. Uhler

Vice President

Dennis L. Zeitler

Vice President; Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

* Effective March 15, 2007

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006

Commission File No. 1-15579

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Pennsylvania
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

121 Gamma Drive
RIDC Industrial Park
O’Hara Township
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
(Address of principal executive offices)

25-0668780
(IRS Employer
Identification No.)

15238
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 412-967-3000

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock, no par value

New York Stock Exchange

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the

Securities Act. Yes È No ‘

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d)

of the Act. Yes ‘ No È

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or
15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes È No ‘

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not

contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in the definitive proxy
statement incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. È

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a

non-accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).

Large accelerated filer È

Accelerated filer ‘

Non-accelerated filer ‘

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the

Act). Yes ‘ No È

As of February 16, 2007, there were outstanding 36,015,416 shares of common stock, no par value, not

including 2,749,012 shares held by the Mine Safety Appliances Company Stock Compensation Trust. The
aggregate market value of voting stock held by non-affiliates as of June 30, 2006 was approximately $1.3 billion.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the Proxy Statement for the May 10, 2007 Annual Meeting of Shareholders are incorporated by

reference into Part III.

Table of Contents

Item No.

Part I
Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.
Risk Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1A.
Unresolved Staff Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1B.
Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.
Legal Proceedings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.
4.
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Executive Officers of the Registrant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Part II
5.

Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases
of Equity Securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selected Financial Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.
7.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations . . . . .
7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure . . . . .
9.
Controls and Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9A.
Other Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9B.

Part III
10.
11.
12.

13.
14.

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Executive Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder

Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Principal Accountant Fees and Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Part IV
15.
Signatures

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Page

3
8
11
12
13
14
14

15
17
18
31
32
60
60
60

61
61

61
61
61

62
64

Forward-Looking Statements

This report may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities

Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These
statements relate to future events or our future financial performance and involve known and unknown risks,
uncertainties and other factors that may cause our or our industry’s actual results, levels of activity, performance
or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or
achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks and other factors include,
but are not limited to, those listed in this report under “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and elsewhere in this report. In some cases, you can identify
forward-looking statements by words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,”
“anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue” or the negative of these terms or other
comparable words. These statements are only predictions and are not guarantees of future performance.
Therefore, actual events or results may differ materially from those expressed or forecast in these forward-
looking statements.

Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we

cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. We are under no duty to update
publicly any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this report whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise.

2

Item 1. Business

PART I

Overview—Mine Safety Appliances Company was incorporated in Pennsylvania in 1914. We are a global

leader in the development, manufacture and supply of sophisticated products that protect people’s health and
safety. Sophisticated safety products typically integrate any combination of electronics, mechanical systems, and
advanced materials to protect users against hazardous or life threatening situations. Our comprehensive line of
safety products is used by workers around the world in the fire service, homeland security, construction, and
other industries, as well as the military. This broad product offering includes self-contained breathing apparatus,
or SCBAs, gas masks, gas detection instruments, head protection, respirators, thermal imaging cameras, fall
protection, and ballistic body armor. We also provide a broad offering of consumer and contractor safety
products through retail channels.

We dedicate significant resources to research and development, which allows us to produce innovative,
sophisticated safety products that are often first to market and exceed industry standards. Our global product
development teams include cross-geographic and cross-functional members from various areas throughout the
company, including research and development, marketing, sales, operations, and quality management. Our
engineers and technical associates work closely with the safety industry’s leading standards-setting groups and
trade associations, such as the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, or NIOSH, and the National
Fire Protection Association, or NFPA, to develop industry product requirements and standards and anticipate
their impact on our product lines.

Segments—We tailor our product offerings and distribution strategy to satisfy distinct customer preferences
that vary across geographic regions. We believe that we best serve these customer preferences by organizing our
business into the following three geographic segments: North America, Europe, and International. Segment
information is presented in the note entitled “Segment Information” in Item 8—Financial Statements and
Supplementary Data.

Because our financial statements are stated in U.S. dollars, currency fluctuations may affect our results of

operations and financial position and may affect the comparability of our results between financial periods.

Principal Products—We manufacture and sell a comprehensive line of sophisticated safety products to
protect workers around the world in the fire service, homeland security, construction, and other industries, as
well as the military. We also provide a broad offering of consumer contractor safety products through retail
channels. Our products protect people against a wide variety of hazardous or life-threatening situations. The
following is a brief description of each of our principal product categories:

Respiratory protection. Respiratory protection products are used to protect against the harmful effects of

contamination caused by dust, gases, fumes, volatile chemicals, sprays, micro-organisms, fibers, and other
contaminants. We offer a broad and comprehensive line of respiratory protection products, including:

•

•

Self Contained Breathing Apparatus, or SCBAs. SCBAs are used by first responders, petrochemical
plant workers, and anyone entering an environment deemed immediately dangerous to life and health.
SCBAs are also used by first responders to protect against exposure to chemical, biological,
radiological, and nuclear, or CBRN, agents.

Filtering respirators. Filtering respirators cover a broad class of respirators for many hazardous
applications, including:

•

•

full face gas masks for the military and first responders exposed to known and unknown
concentrations of dangerous gases, chemicals, vapors, and particulates;

half-mask respirators for industrial workers, painters, and construction workers exposed to known
concentrations of gases, vapors, and particulates;

3

•

•

powered-air purifying respirators for industrial, hazmat, and remediation workers who have longer
term exposures to hazards in their work environment; and

dust and pollen masks for maintenance workers, contractors, and at-home consumers exposed to
nuisance dusts, allergens, and other particulates.

• Gas masks. We have supplied gas masks to the U.S. military for several decades. The latest versions of
these masks are currently in use by the U.S. military in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other parts of the world.
Our commercial version of this gas mask, the Millennium, was developed based on the MCU-2/P, the
gas mask currently used by the U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Navy.

•

Escape hoods. Our Response Escape Hood is used by law enforcement personnel, government workers,
chemical and pharmaceutical workers, and anyone needing to escape from unknown concentrations of a
chemical, biological or radiological release of toxic gases and vapors. The hood gives users head and
upper neck coverage and respiratory protection to help them escape from threatening situations quickly
and easily.

Hand-held and permanent instruments. Our hand-held and permanent instruments include gas detection

instruments and thermal imaging cameras. Our gas detection instruments are used to detect the presence or
absence of various gases in the air. These instruments can be either hand-held or permanently installed. Typical
applications of these instruments include the detection of the lack of oxygen in confined spaces or the presence of
combustible or toxic gases. Our hand-held thermal imaging cameras are used by firefighters to see downed
victims through dense smoke, or to detect the source of the fire.

•

•

Single- and multi-gas hand-held detectors. Our single- and multi-gas detectors provide portable
solutions for detecting the presence of oxygen, hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, and combustible
gases, either singularly or all four gases at once. Our hand-held portable instruments are used by
chemical workers, oil and gas workers, utility workers entering confined spaces, or anywhere a user
needs protection to continuously monitor the quality of the atmosphere they are working in and around.

Thermal imaging cameras. Our infrared thermal imaging cameras, or TICs, are used in the global fire
service market. TICs detect sources of heat in order to locate firefighters and other people trapped inside
burning or smoke-filled structures. TICs can also be used to identify “hot spots.” Recently, we
introduced the Evolution® 5200 and Evolution® 5200 HD2 Thermal Imaging Cameras, which combine
the functionality and durability required by the fire service with features and performance capabilities
not found in other small format TICs.

• Multi-point permanently installed gas detection systems. Our comprehensive line of gas monitoring

systems is used to continuously monitor for combustible and toxic gases and oxygen deficiency in
virtually any gas detection application where continuous monitoring is required. Our systems are used
for gas detection in pulp and paper, refrigerant monitoring, petrochemical, and general industrial
applications. One of our newest lines, the SafeSite Hazardous Gas Detection System, designed and
developed for homeland security applications, combines the technologies and features from our line of
permanent and portable gas detection offerings. The SafeSite System detects and communicates the
presence of toxic industrial chemicals and chemical warfare agents. With up to 16 monitoring stations,
wirelessly connected to a base station, the SafeSite System allows law enforcement officials to rapidly
deploy and set up perimeter gas sensing sentinels that continuously monitor the air for toxic gases at
large public events, in subways or at federal facilities, and continuously report their status to incident
command.

•

Flame detectors and open-path infrared gas detectors. Our line of flame and combustible gas detectors
is used for plant-wide monitoring of toxic gas concentrations and for detecting the presence of flames.
These systems utilize infrared optics to detect potentially hazardous conditions across distances as far as
120 meters, making them suitable for use in such places as offshore oil rigs, storage vessels, refineries,
pipelines, and ventilation ducts. First used in the oil and gas industry, our systems currently have broad
applications in petrochemical facilities, the transportation industry, and in pharmaceutical production.

4

Eye, face, hearing, and head protection. Eye, face, hearing, and head protection is used in work

environments where hazards present a danger to the eye, face, hearing, and head, such as dust, flying particles,
metal fragments, chemicals, extreme glare, optical radiation, and items dropped from above. Our basic categories
of these products are:

•

•

Industrial hard hats. Our broad line of hard hats include full-brim hats and traditional hard hats,
available in custom colors and with custom logos. These hard hats are used by plant, steel and
construction workers, miners and welders.

Fire helmets. Our fire service products include leather, traditional, modern, and specialty helmets
designed to satisfy the preferences of firefighters across geographic regions. Our CairnsHELMET is the
number one helmet in the North American fire service market based on 2006 sales. Similarly, our Gallet
firefighting helmet has a number one market position in Europe based on 2006 sales.

• Military helmets. The Advanced Combat Helmet is used by the military for ballistic head protection. It
was originally designed for the Special Forces of the U.S. military and has now been designated as the
“basis of issue” by the U.S. Army.

•

Eye, face, and hearing protection. We manufacture and sell a broad line of hearing protection products,
non-prescription protective eyewear, and face shields, used in a variety of industries.

Body protection.

•

•

Fall protection. Our broad line of fall protection equipment includes the following: confined space
equipment; harnesses/fall arrest equipment; lanyards; and lifelines.

Ballistic body armor. Our MSA Paraclete Releasable Assault Vest and Releasable Modular Vest are
used primarily by the U.S. military, including Special Forces Units. Our ForceField™ Body Armor line
features two concealable ballistic vests and one over-the-uniform tactical vest designed for SWAT
applications.

Customers—Our customers generally fall into three categories: industrial and military end-users,

distributors, and retail consumers. In North America, we make nearly all of our non-military sales through our
distributors. In our Europe and International segments, we make our sales through both indirect and direct sales
channels. Our U.S. military customers, which are comprised of multiple U.S. government entities, including the
Department of Defense, accounted for approximately 8% of our 2006 sales. The year-end backlog of orders
under contracts with U.S. government agencies was $33.1 million in 2006, $57.9 million in 2005, and $80.8
million in 2004.

Industrial and military end-users—Examples of the primary industrial and military end-users of our core

products are listed below:

Products

Respiratory Protection

Gas Detection

Head, Eye and Face, and
Hearing Protection

Primary End-Users

First Responders; General Industry Workers; Military Personnel

Oil, Gas, Petrochemical and Chemical Workers; First Responders;

Hazmat, and Confined Space Workers

Construction Workers and Contractors; First Responders; General

Industry Workers; Military Personnel

Thermal Imaging Cameras

First Responders

Sales and Distribution—Our sales and distribution team consists of distinct marketing, field sales and
customer service organizations for our three geographic segments: North America, Europe, and International. We
believe our sales and distribution team, totaling over 400 dedicated associates, is the largest in our industry. In

5

most geographic areas, our field sales organizations work jointly with select distributors to call on end-users,
educating them about hazards, exposure limits, safety requirements, and product applications, as well as specific
performance requirements of our products. In our International segment and Eastern Europe where distributors
are not well established, our sales associates work with and sell directly to end-users. Our development of
relationships with end-users is critical to increasing the overall demand for our products.

The in-depth customer training and education provided by our sales associates to our customers are critical

to ensure proper use of many of our products, such as SCBAs and gas detection instruments. As a result of our
sales associates working closely with end-users, they gain valuable insight into customers’ preferences and
needs. To better serve our customers and to ensure that our sales associates are among the most knowledgeable
and professional in the industry, we place significant emphasis on training our sales associates with respect to
product application, industry standards and regulations, sales skills and sales force automation.

We believe our sales and distribution strategy allows us to deliver a customer value proposition that
differentiates our products and services from those of our competitors, resulting in increased customer loyalty
and demand.

In areas where we use indirect selling, we promote, distribute, and service our products to general industry
through select authorized national, regional, and local distributors. Some of our key distributors include Airgas,
W.W. Grainger Inc., Fisher Safety, and Hagemeyer. In North America, we distribute fire service products
primarily through specially trained local and regional distributors who provide advanced training and service
capabilities to volunteer and paid municipal fire departments. In our Europe and International segments, we
primarily sell to and service the fire service market directly. Because of our broad and diverse product line and
our desire to reach as many markets and market segments as possible, we have over 4,000 authorized distributor
locations worldwide.

We market consumer products under the MSA Safety Works brand through a dedicated sales and marketing

force. We serve the retail consumer through various channels, including distributors, such as Orgill Bros.,
hardware and equipment rental outlets, such as United Rentals, and retail chains, such as The Home Depot and
TrueValue.

Competition—We believe the worldwide personal protection equipment market, including the sophisticated

safety products market in which we compete, generates annual sales in excess of $13 billion. The industry
supplying this market is broad and highly fragmented with few participants able to offer a comprehensive line of
safety products. Generally, global demand for safety products has been stable or growing because purchases of
these products are non-discretionary since they protect workers in hazardous and life-threatening work
environments and because their use is often mandated by government and industry regulations. Moreover, safety
products industry revenues reflect the need to consistently replace many safety products that have limited life
spans due to normal course wear-and-tear or because they are one-time use products by design.

The safety products market is highly competitive, with participants ranging in size from small companies

focusing on a single type of personal protection equipment to a few large multinational corporations which
manufacture and supply many types of sophisticated safety products. Our main competitors vary by region and
product. We believe that participants in this industry compete primarily on the basis of product characteristics
(such as functional performance, agency approvals, design and style), price, brand name recognition and service.

We believe we compete favorably within each of our operating segments as a result of our high quality and

cost-efficient product offering and strong brand trust and recognition.

Research and Development—To maintain our position at the forefront of protective equipment technology,

we operate three sophisticated research and development facilities. We believe our dedication and commitment
to innovation and research and development allow us to produce innovative sophisticated safety products that are

6

often first to market and exceed industry standards. In 2006, 2005, and 2004, on a global basis, we spent
approximately $26.0 million, $21.9 million, and $22.6 million, respectively, on research and development. Our
engineering groups operate primarily in the United States and Germany, and to a lesser extent in France and
Sweden. Our global product development teams include cross-geographic and cross-functional members from
various areas throughout the company, including research and development, marketing, sales, operations, and
quality management. These teams are responsible for setting product line strategy based on their understanding
of the markets and the technologies, opportunities and challenges they foresee in each product area. These teams
present their strategies, new product development portfolios, and resource allocation recommendations to our
Global Product Leadership Council, made up of executives from our global operations. The council refines the
recommendations and presents them to our senior executive team, which consists of the chief executive officer,
chief financial officer, and presidents of our North American, European, and International segments. The senior
executive team then establishes resource allocation, corporate alignment, and strategic direction.

We believe our team-based, cross-geographic and cross-functional approach to new product development is
a source of competitive advantage. Our approach to the new product development process allows us to tailor our
product offerings and product line strategies to satisfy distinct customer preferences and industry regulations that
vary across our three geographic segments.

We believe another important aspect of our approach to new product development is that our engineers and

technical associates work closely with the safety industry’s leading standards-setting groups and trade
associations, such as the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, or NIOSH, and the National Fire
Protection Association, or NFPA, to develop industry product requirements and standards and anticipate their
impact on our product lines. For example, nearly every consensus standard-setting body around the world that
impacts our product lines has one of our key managers as a voting member. Key members of our management
team understand the impact that these standard-setting organizations have on our new product development
pipeline and devote time and attention to anticipating a new standard’s impact on our net sales and operating
results. Because of our technological sophistication, commitment to and membership on global standard-setting
bodies, resource dedication to research and development and unique approach to the new product development
process, we believe we are well-positioned to anticipate and adapt to the needs of changing product standards and
gain the approvals and certifications necessary to meet new government and multinational product regulations.

Patents and Intellectual Property—We own and have obtained licenses to significant intellectual property,
including a number of domestic and foreign patents, patent applications and trademarks related to our products,
processes and business. Although our intellectual property plays an important role in maintaining our competitive
position in a number of markets that we serve, no single patent, or patent application, trademark or license is, in our
opinion, of such value to us that our business would be materially affected by the expiration or termination thereof,
other than the “MSA” trademark. Our patents expire at various times in the future not exceeding 20 years. Our
general policy is to apply for patents on an ongoing basis in the United States and other countries, as appropriate, to
perfect our patent development. In addition to our patents, we have also developed or acquired a substantial body of
manufacturing know-how that we believe provides a significant competitive advantage over our competitors.

Raw Materials and Suppliers—Nearly all components of our products are formulated, machined, tooled, or
molded in-house from raw materials. For example, we rely on integrated manufacturing capabilities for breathing
apparatus, gas masks, ballistic helmets, hard hats, and circuit boards. The primary raw materials that we source
from third parties include rubber, chemical filter media, eye and face protective lenses, air cylinders, certain
metals, electronic components, and ballistic resistant and non-ballistic fabrics. We purchase these materials both
domestically and internationally, and we believe our supply sources are both well established and reliable. We
have close vendor relationship programs with the majority of our key raw material suppliers. Although we
generally do not have long-term supply contracts, we have not experienced any significant problems in obtaining
adequate raw materials.

7

Employees—As of December 31, 2006, we had approximately 4,900 employees, approximately 2,600 of

whom were employed by our Europe and International segments. None of our U.S. employees are subject to the
provisions of a collective bargaining agreement. Some of our employees outside the United States are members
of unions. We have not experienced a work stoppage in over 10 years and believe our relations with our
employees are good.

Available Information—We post the following filings on the Investor Relations page on our Web site at
www.msanet.com as soon as reasonably practicable after they have been electronically filed with or furnished to
the Securities and Exchange Commission: our annual reports on Form 10-K, our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q,
our current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to
Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All such filings on our Investor Relations Web
page are available to be viewed on this page free of charge. Information contained on our Web site is not part of
this annual report on Form 10-K or our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

A reduction in the spending patterns of government agencies could materially and adversely affect our net
sales, earnings and cash flow.

The demand for our products sold to the fire service market, the homeland security market, and to U.S.
government agencies, including the Department of Defense, is, in large part, driven by available government
funding. For example, the level of government funding in these areas increased significantly after the attacks of
September 11, 2001, fueling the demand for many of our products such as SCBAs, gas masks, and Advanced
Combat Helmets, and declined in 2005 and 2006, as government funding priorities changed. Approximately 8%
of our net sales for the year ended December 31, 2006 were made directly to U.S. military customers.
Government budgets are set annually and we cannot assure you that government funding will be sustained at the
same level in the future. A significant reduction in available government funding in the future could materially
and adversely affect our net sales, earnings and cash flow.

The markets in which we compete are highly competitive, and some of our competitors have greater
financial and other resources than we do. The competitive pressures faced by us could materially and
adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

The safety products market is highly competitive, with participants ranging in size from small companies

focusing on single types of safety products, to large multinational corporations that manufacture and supply
many types of safety products. Our main competitors vary by region and product. We believe that participants in
this industry compete primarily on the basis of product characteristics (such as functional performance, agency
approvals, design and style), price, brand name trust and recognition, and customer service. Some of our
competitors have greater financial and other resources than we do and our cash flows from operations could be
adversely affected by competitors’ new product innovations, technological advances made to competing products
and pricing changes made by us in response to competition from existing or new competitors. We may not be
able to compete successfully against current and future competitors and the competitive pressures faced by us
could materially and adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

If we fail to introduce successful new products or extend our existing product lines, we may lose our
market position and our financial performance may be materially and adversely affected.

In the safety products market, there are frequent introductions of new products and product line extensions.

If we are unable to identify emerging consumer and technological trends, maintain and improve the
competitiveness of our products and introduce new products, we may lose our market position, which could have
a materially adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Although we continue
to invest significant resources in research and development and market research, continued product development
and marketing efforts are subject to the risks inherent in the development of new products and product line

8

extensions, including development delays, the failure of new products and product line extensions to achieve
anticipated levels of market acceptance, and the cost of failed product introductions.

Product liability claims could have a materially adverse effect on our business, operating results, and
financial condition.

We face an inherent business risk of exposure to product liability claims arising from the alleged failure of

our products to prevent the types of personal injury or death against which they are designed to protect. Although
we have not experienced any material uninsured losses due to product liability claims, it is possible that we could
experience material losses in the future. In the event any of our products prove to be defective, we could be
required to recall or redesign such products. In addition, we may voluntarily recall or redesign certain products
that could potentially be harmful to end users. A successful claim brought against us in excess of available
insurance coverage, or any claim or product recall that results in significant expense or adverse publicity against
us, could have a materially adverse effect on our business, operating results, and financial condition.

Our ability to market and sell our products is subject to existing regulations and standards. Changes in
such regulations and standards or our failure to comply with them could materially and adversely affect
our results of operations.

Most of our products are required to meet performance and test standards designed to protect the health and

safety of people around the world. Our inability to comply with these standards may materially and adversely
affect our results of operations. Changes in regulations could reduce the demand for our products or require us to
reengineer our products, thereby creating opportunities for our competitors. Regulatory approvals for our
products may be delayed or denied for a variety of reasons that are outside of our control. Additionally, market
anticipation of significant new standards, such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard for
breathing apparatus which was recently promulgated and is due to become effective August 31, 2007, can cause
customers to accelerate or delay buying decisions.

We have significant international operations, and we are subject to the risks of doing business in foreign
countries.

We have business operations in over 30 foreign countries. In 2006, approximately 47% of our net sales were

made by operations located outside the United States. Our international operations are subject to various
political, economic, and other risks and uncertainties, which could adversely affect our business. These risks
include the following:

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

unexpected changes in regulatory requirements;

currency exchange rate fluctuations;

changes in trade policy or tariff regulations;

changes in tax laws and regulations;

intellectual property protection difficulties;

difficulty in collecting accounts receivable;

complications in complying with a variety of foreign laws and regulations, some of which conflict with
U.S. laws;

trade protection measures and price controls;

trade sanctions and embargos;

nationalization and expropriation;

increased international instability or potential instability of foreign governments;

9

•

•

the need to take extra security precautions for our international operations; and

costs and difficulties in managing culturally and geographically diverse international operations.

Any one or more of these risks could have a negative impact on the success of our international operations, and
thereby materially and adversely affect our business as a whole.

Our future results are subject to availability of, and fluctuations in the costs of, purchased components
and materials due to market demand, currency exchange risks, material shortages, and other factors.

We depend on various components and materials to manufacture our products. Although we have not

experienced any difficulty in obtaining components and materials, it is possible that any of our supplier
relationships could be terminated. Any sustained interruption in our receipt of adequate supplies could have a
materially adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. We cannot assure you that
we will be able to successfully manage price fluctuations due to market demand, currency risks or material
shortages, or that future price fluctuations will not have a materially adverse effect on our business, results of
operations and financial condition.

If we lose any of our key personnel or are unable to attract, train and retain qualified personnel, our
ability to manage our business and continue our growth would be negatively impacted.

Our success depends in large part on the continued contributions of our key management, engineering, and
sales and marketing personnel, many of whom are highly skilled and would be difficult to replace. Our success
also depends on the abilities of new personnel to function effectively, both individually and as a group. If we are
unable to attract, effectively integrate and retain management, engineering or sales and marketing personnel, then
the execution of our growth strategy and our ability to react to changing market requirements may be impeded,
and our business could suffer as a result. Competition for personnel is intense, and we cannot assure you that we
will be successful in attracting and retaining qualified personnel. In addition, we do not currently maintain key
person life insurance.

We are subject to various environmental laws and any violation of these laws could adversely affect our
results of operations.

We are subject to federal, state, and local laws, regulations and ordinances relating to the protection of the

environment, including those governing discharges to air and water, handling and disposal practices for solid and
hazardous wastes, and the maintenance of a safe workplace. These laws impose penalties for noncompliance and
liability for response costs and certain damages resulting from past and current spills, disposals, or other releases
of hazardous materials. We could incur substantial costs as a result of noncompliance with or liability for cleanup
pursuant to these environmental laws. We have identified several known and potential environmental liabilities,
which we do not believe are material. Environmental laws have changed rapidly in recent years, and we may be
subject to more stringent environmental laws in the future. If more stringent environmental laws are enacted,
these future laws could have a materially adverse effect on our results of operations.

Our inability to successfully identify, consummate and integrate future acquisitions, or to realize
anticipated cost savings and other benefits could adversely affect our business.

One of our key operating strategies is to selectively pursue acquisitions. Any future acquisitions will depend

on our ability to identify suitable acquisition candidates and successfully consummate such acquisitions.
Acquisitions involve a number of risks including:

•

•

•

failure of the acquired businesses to achieve the results we expect;

diversion of our management’s attention from operational matters;

our inability to retain key personnel of the acquired businesses;

10

•

•

•

risks associated with unanticipated events or liabilities;

potential disruption of our existing business; and

customer dissatisfaction or performance problems at the acquired businesses.

If we are unable to integrate or successfully manage businesses that we may acquire in the future, we may

not realize anticipated cost savings, improved manufacturing efficiencies and increased revenue, which may
result in materially adverse short- and long-term effects on our operating results, financial condition and
liquidity. Even if we are able to integrate the operations of our acquired businesses into our operations, we may
not realize the full benefits of the cost savings, revenue enhancements or other benefits that we may have
expected at the time of acquisition. In addition, even if we achieve the expected benefits, we may not be able to
achieve them within the anticipated time frame, and such benefits may be offset by costs incurred in integrating
the companies and increases in other expenses.

Because we derive a significant portion of our sales from the operations of our foreign subsidiaries, future
exchange rate fluctuations may adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition, and may
affect the comparability of our results between financial periods.

For the year ended December 31, 2006, our operations in our Europe and International segments accounted

for 24% and 21% of our net sales, respectively. The results of our foreign operations are reported in the local
currency and then translated into U.S. dollars at the applicable exchange rates for inclusion in our consolidated
financial statements. The exchange rates between some of these currencies and the U.S. dollar have fluctuated
significantly in recent years, and may continue to do so in the future. In addition, because our financial
statements are stated in U.S. dollars, such fluctuations may affect our results of operations and financial position,
and may affect the comparability of our results between financial periods. We cannot assure you that we will be
able to effectively manage our exchange rate risks or that any volatility in currency exchange rates will not have
a materially adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

Our continued success depends on our ability to protect our intellectual property. If we are unable to
protect our intellectual property, our net sales could be materially and adversely affected.

Our success depends, in part, on our ability to obtain and enforce patents, maintain trade secret protection
and operate without infringing on the proprietary rights of third parties. We have been issued patents and have
registered trademarks with respect to many of our products, but our competitors could independently develop
similar or superior products or technologies, duplicate any of our designs, trademarks, processes or other
intellectual property or design around any processes or designs on which we have or may obtain patents or
trademark protection. In addition, it is possible that third parties may have, or will acquire, licenses for patents or
trademarks that we may use or desire to use, so that we may need to acquire licenses to, or to contest the validity
of, such patents or trademarks of third parties. Such licenses may not be made available to us on acceptable
terms, if at all, and we may not prevail in contesting the validity of third party rights.

In addition to patent and trademark protection, we also protect trade secrets, know-how, and other

confidential information against unauthorized use by others or disclosure by persons who have access to them,
such as our employees, through contractual arrangements. These agreements may not provide meaningful
protection for our trade secrets, know-how or other proprietary information in the event of any unauthorized use,
misappropriation or disclosure of such trade secrets, know-how or other proprietary information. If we are unable
to maintain the proprietary nature of our technologies, our results of operations and financial condition could be
materially and adversely affected.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

11

Item 2. Properties

Our principal executive offices are located at 121 Gamma Drive, RIDC Industrial Park, O’Hara Township,

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15238 in a 93,000 square-foot building owned by us. We own or lease our primary
facilities located in seven states in the United States and in a number of other countries. We believe that all of our
facilities, including the manufacturing facilities, are in good repair and in suitable condition for the purposes for
which they are used. See Note 20 to the consolidated financial statements for information concerning certain
planned facility consolidations.

The following table sets forth a list of our primary facilities:

Location

North America
Murrysville, PA
Cranberry Twp., PA

Evans City, PA
St. Pauls, NC
Jacksonville, NC
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Cranberry Twp., PA
Sparks, MD

Englewood, CO
Clifton, NJ
Mexico City, Mexico
Englewood, CO
Newport, VT
Bowling Green, KY

Toronto, Canada

Europe
Berlin, Germany

Function

Manufacturing
Office, Research and Development, and

Manufacturing

Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Office
Distribution
Research and Development
Office, Research and Development, and

Manufacturing

Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Distribution and Manufacturing
Distribution
Manufacturing
Office, Research and Development, and

Manufacturing

Distribution

Square Feet

Owned
or Leased

295,000
212,000

Owned
Owned

194,000
144,000
107,000
93,000
81,000
68,000
52,000

41,000
41,000
41,000
15,000
12,000
7,000

Leased
Leased
Owned
Owned
Leased
Owned
Leased

Leased
Owned
Leased
Leased
Leased
Leased

5,000

Leased

Office, Research and Development, Manufacturing,

340,000

Leased

and Distribution

Chatillon sur Chalaronne, France

Office, Research and Development, Manufacturing,

94,000

Owned

Glasgow, Scotland
Milan, Italy
Mohammedia, Morocco
Vernamo, Sweden

Glasgow, Scotland

International
Wuxi, China

and Distribution

Office and Manufacturing
Office, Research and Development, and Distribution
Manufacturing
Office, Research and Development, Manufacturing,

25,000
25,000
24,000
17,000

Leased
Owned
Owned
Leased

and Distribution

Distribution

6,000

Leased

Office, Research and Development, Manufacturing,

92,000

Owned

and Distribution

Johannesburg, South Africa
Sao Paulo, Brazil

Office, Manufacturing, and Distribution
Office, Research and Development, Manufacturing,

89,000
60,000

Leased
Owned

and Distribution

Sydney, Australia

Office, Research and Development, Manufacturing,

57,000

Owned

Lima, Peru
Buenos Aires, Argentina

and Distribution
Office and Distribution
Office and Distribution

12

34,000
8,600

Owned
Owned

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

We are subject to federal, state, and local laws, regulations and ordinances relating to the protection of the

environment, including those governing discharges to air and water, handling and disposal practices for solid and
hazardous wastes, and the maintenance of a safe workplace. There are no current or expected legal proceedings
or expenditures with respect to environmental matters that would materially affect our operations.

Various lawsuits and claims arising in the normal course of business are pending against us. These lawsuits

are primarily product liability claims. We are presently named as a defendant in approximately 2,500 lawsuits
primarily involving respiratory protection products allegedly manufactured and sold by us. Collectively, these
lawsuits represent a total of approximately 16,750 plaintiffs. Approximately 90% of these lawsuits involve
plaintiffs alleging they suffer from silicosis, with the remainder alleging they suffer from other or combined
injuries, including asbestosis. These lawsuits typically allege that these conditions resulted in part from
respirators that were negligently designed or manufactured by us. Consistent with the experience of other
companies involved in silica and asbestos-related litigation, in recent years there has been an increase in the
number of asserted claims that could potentially involve us. We cannot determine our potential maximum
liability for such claims, in part because the defendants in these lawsuits are often numerous, and the claims
generally do not specify the amount of damages sought.

With some limited exceptions, we maintain insurance against product liability claims. We also maintain a
reserve for uninsured product liability based on expected settlement charges for pending claims and an estimate
of unreported claims derived from experience, sales volumes and other relevant information. We evaluate our
exposures on an ongoing basis and make adjustments to the reserve as appropriate. Based on information
currently available, we believe that the disposition of matters that are pending will not have a materially adverse
effect on our financial condition.

In the normal course of business, we make payments to settle product liability claims and related legal fees

that are covered by insurance. We record receivables for the portion of these payments that we believe to be
probable of recovery from insurance carriers. The net balance of receivables from insurance carriers was $18.4
million and $5.0 million at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. We evaluate the collectibility of these
receivables on an ongoing basis and make adjustments as appropriate.

13

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

No matters were submitted to a vote of our security holders during the fourth quarter of 2006.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

The following sets forth the names and ages of our executive officers indicating all positions held during the

past five years:

Name

Age

Principal Occupations or
Employment During Past Five Years

John T. Ryan III . . . . . . . . . .

63 Chairman of the Board of Directors; Chief Executive Officer since October

1991.

James H. Baillie . . . . . . . . . .

60 Vice President; President, MSA Europe since March 1999.

Joseph A. Bigler . . . . . . . . . .

57 Vice President since January 1998; primarily responsible for North

American sales and distribution.

Kerry M. Bove . . . . . . . . . . .

48 Vice President since August 2000; primarily responsible for North

Rob Cañizares M. . . . . . . . . .

American manufacturing operations and materials management and the
optimization of global manufacturing operations.

57 Vice President; President, MSA International since January 2003. Prior to
that time, Mr. Cañizares was senior vice president of global sales and
service group of Trane Company.

Ronald N. Herring, Jr. . . . . . .

46 Vice President since January 2004; primarily responsible for North

American marketing, research and engineering, and quality assurance.
Prior to that time, Mr. Herring served as the general manager of the safety
products division, and as the director of marketing for the safety products
division.

William M. Lambert . . . . . . .

48 Vice President; President, MSA North America since January 2003. Prior

to that time, Mr. Lambert was vice president and general manager of the
safety products division.

Douglas K. McClaine . . . . . .

49 Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel since May 2005; and

served as secretary and general counsel since July 2002. Prior to that time,
Mr. McClaine was associate general counsel.

Stephen C. Plut . . . . . . . . . . .

47 Vice President, Chief Information Officer since May 2005. Prior to that

time, Mr. Plut was chief information officer.

Paul R. Uhler . . . . . . . . . . . . .

48 Vice President since May 2006. Prior to that time, Mr. Uhler served as
director of human resources and corporate communications, and as
manager of the Murrysville, PA Plant.

Dennis L. Zeitler . . . . . . . . . .

58 Vice President; Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer since November

2000.

14

PART II

Item 5. Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases

of Equity Securities

Our common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “MSA”. Stock price

ranges and dividends declared were as follows:

Year ended December 31, 2005
First Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Second Quarter
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Third Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fourth Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Year ended December 31, 2006
First Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Second Quarter
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Third Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fourth Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Price Range of Our
Common Stock

High

Low

Dividends

$53.00
47.29
50.18
42.60

$44.16
44.00
41.19
39.09

$36.25
33.89
38.13
35.18

$36.18
38.62
34.05
34.98

$0.10
0.14
0.14
0.14

$0.14
0.18
0.18
0.18

On February 16, 2007, there were 391 registered holders of our shares of common stock.

The information appearing in Part III below regarding common stock issuable under our equity

compensation plans is incorporated herein by reference.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Period

October 1 - October 31, 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
November 1 - November 30, 2006 . . . . . . . . . . .
December 1 - December 31, 2006 . . . . . . . . . . .

Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased

—
140,000
60,000

Average
Price Paid
Per Share

—
$36.62
36.81

Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs

—
140,000
60,000

Maximum
Number of
Shares that
May Yet Be
Purchased
Under the
Plans or
Programs

2,114,802
2,072,982
1,982,179

On November 2, 2005, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of up to $100 million of common

stock from time to time in private transactions and on the open market. The share purchase program has no
expiration date. The maximum shares that may yet be purchased is calculated based on the dollars remaining
under the program and the respective month-end closing share price.

We do not have any other share purchase programs.

15

Comparison of Five-Year Cumulative Total Return

Set forth below is a line graph and table comparing the cumulative total returns (assuming reinvestment of
dividends) for the five years ended December 31, 2006 of $100 invested on December 31, 2001 in each of Mine
Safety Appliances Company’s common stock, the Standard & Poor’s 500 Composite Index, and the Russell 2000
Index. Because our competitors are principally privately held concerns or subsidiaries or divisions of
corporations engaged in multiple lines of business, we do not believe it feasible to construct a peer group
comparison on an industry or line-of-business basis. The Russell 2000 Index, while including corporations both
larger and smaller than MSA in terms of market capitalization, is composed of corporations with an average
market capitalization similar to us.

MSA

S&P 500

RUSSELL 2000

500

400

300

200

100

0

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

Value at December 31,

MSA . . . . . . . .
S&P 500 . . . . .
Russell 2000 . .

$100.00
100.00
100.00

$81.71
77.90
79.50

$218.14
100.26
117.10

$421.90
111.19
138.53

$305.06
116.63
144.91

$314.35
135.10
171.68

16

Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial

statements, including the respective notes thereto, as well as the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” included elsewhere in this annual report on
Form 10-K.

Statement of Income Data:
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of products sold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Research and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring and other charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Currency exchange losses (gains)
Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . .
Gain on sale of discontinued operations—after tax . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Earnings per Share Data:
Basic per common share continuing operations (in

2006

2005

2004

2003

2002

(In thousands, except as noted)

$913,714
5,384
568,410
215,663
26,037
6,981
6,228
3,139
28,722
63,918
—
—
63,918

$907,912
4,058
558,921
201,367
21,928
—
5,484
474
42,013
81,783
—
—
81,783

$852,509
5,004
518,174
198,714
22,648
—
3,845
264
42,821
71,047
—
—
71,047

$696,473
1,724
427,632
174,701
20,897
—
4,564
(3,356)
24,835
48,924
2,685
13,658
65,267

$564,426
2,271
349,936
144,641
19,459
—
4,769
(191)
16,870
31,213
3,864
—
35,077

dollars) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

1.76

$

2.24

$

1.91

$

1.33

$

Diluted per common share continuing operations (in

dollars) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . .

Dividends paid per common share (in dollars)
Weighted average common shares

1.73
.68

2.19
.52

1.86
.37

1.31
.26

.85

.85
.22

outstanding—basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

36,366

36,560

37,111

36,730

36,512

Balance Sheet Data:
Working capital
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Working capital ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Common shareholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity per common share (in dollars) . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Note:
Cost of products sold, selling, general and

administrative expenses, and research and
development expenses include noncash pension
income.

$289,424
3.3
120,651
898,620
112,541
436,926
12.13

$246,367
2.9
116,209
725,357
45,834
381,470
10.44

$270,593
3.1
123,716
734,110
54,463
376,679
10.09

$207,216
2.8
120,560
643,885
59,915
306,867
8.31

$138,182
2.4
130,407
579,765
64,350
288,009
7.86

Noncash pension income, pre-tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

4,147

$

6,104

$

7,188

$

8,845

$ 13,125

Working capital at December 31, 2003 and 2002 excludes assets held for sale.

17

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the historical financial statements

and other financial information included elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K. This discussion may
contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements are not
historical facts, but rather are based on current expectations, estimates, assumptions, and projections about our
industry, business, and future financial results. Our actual results could differ materially from the results
contemplated by these forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including those discussed in the
sections of this annual report entitled “Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors.”

BUSINESS OVERVIEW

We are a global leader in the development, manufacture and supply of sophisticated products that protect

people’s health and safety. Sophisticated safety products typically integrate any combination of electronics,
mechanical systems, and advanced materials to protect users against hazardous or life threatening situations. Our
comprehensive lines of safety products are used by workers around the world in the fire service, homeland
security, construction, and other industries, as well as the military.

In recent years, we have concentrated on specific initiatives intended to help improve our competitive

position and profitability, including:

•

•

•

•

•

•

identifying and developing promising new markets;

focusing on innovation and new product introductions;

further strengthening relationships with major distributors;

optimizing factory performance and driving operational excellence;

positioning international business to capture significant growth opportunities; and

pursuing strategic acquisitions.

We tailor our product offerings and distribution strategy to satisfy distinct customer preferences that vary

across geographic regions. We believe that we best serve these customer preferences by organizing our business
into three geographic segments: North America, Europe, and International. Each segment includes a number of
operating companies. In 2006, approximately 55%, 24%, and 21% of our net sales were made by our North
America, Europe, and International segments, respectively.

North America. Our largest manufacturing and research and development facilities are located in the United

States. We serve our North American markets with sales and distribution functions in the U.S., Canada, and
Mexico.

Europe. Our European segment includes well-established companies in most Western European countries

and more recently established operations in a number of Eastern European locations. Our largest European
companies, based in Germany and France, develop, manufacture, and sell a wide variety of products. Operations
in other European countries focus primarily on sales and distribution in their respective home country markets.
While some of these companies may perform limited production, most of their sales are of products that are
manufactured in our plants in Germany, France, and the U.S., or are purchased from third party vendors.

International. Our International segment includes operating entities located in Abu Dhabi, Argentina,
Australia, Brazil, Chile, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Peru, Singapore, South Africa,
and Zimbabwe, some of which are in developing regions of the world. Principal manufacturing operations are
located in Australia, Brazil, South Africa, and China. These companies develop and manufacture products that
are sold primarily in each company’s home country and regional markets. The other companies in the
International segment focus primarily on sales and distribution in their respective home country markets. While

18

some of these companies may perform limited production, most of their sales are of products that are
manufactured in our plants in the U.S., Germany, and France, or are purchased from third party vendors.

We believe that our financial performance in recent years is the result of initiatives that have allowed us to

anticipate and respond quickly to market requirements, particularly in the North American fire service, homeland
security, construction and industrial markets, as well as the military, and reflects our ability to quickly bring to
market products that comply with changing industry standards and to create new market demand with innovative
products.

ACQUISITIONS

In September 2006, we acquired Paraclete Armor and Equipment, Inc. (Paraclete) of St. Pauls, North
Carolina. Paraclete is a rapidly growing innovator and developer of advanced ballistic body armor used by
military personnel, including Special Forces units of the U.S. military. Paraclete’s most recent product
development—the AV2007 Tactical Body Armor System—represents the next generation of advanced body
armor. The vest features a modular design that allows 23 vest configurations, enabling users to tailor the degree
of protection based on specific mission or task requirements. The vest employs state-of-the-art materials for
enhanced protection against fragmentation and small arms projectiles. We believe that the acquisition of
Paraclete enhances our existing line of ballistic body armor and strategically positions us to provide a broad
range of ballistic protective equipment to both the military and law enforcement markets.

In January 2006, we took steps to ensure our compliance with South African Black Economic

Empowerment (BEE) requirements by forming a new South African holding company in which Mineworkers
Investment Company (MIC) of Johannesburg, South Africa holds a 25.1% ownership interest. Compliance with
BEE, a South African government program similar to Affirmative Action in the United States, is key to achieving
meaningful growth in South Africa, particularly in the mining industry. At the same time, we acquired Select
Personal Protective Equipment (Select PPE) of South Africa, an established supplier of multi-brand safety
equipment and solutions to the South African mining industry. Our existing South African company, MSA
Africa, and Select PPE are operating independently under the newly-established South African holding company.
We believe that our new South African operating structure significantly improves our market presence and
expertise in serving the mining industry and provides significant growth opportunities in the region.

In September 2005, we acquired Microsensor Systems, Inc. of Bowling Green, Kentucky. Microsensor
Systems is a world leader in surface acoustic wave-based chemical sensing technology used to detect chemical
warfare agents. We believe the acquisition of Microsensor Systems significantly strengthens our position as a
premier provider of leading edge detection technology, while expanding our product offerings in the homeland
security, emergency responder, law enforcement, military and industrial markets.

In June 2004, we acquired Sordin AB of Varnamo, Sweden, a leading manufacturer of passive and

electronic hearing protection designed for the industrial, law enforcement, and military markets. We believe the
acquisition of Sordin enhances our position as a provider of modern, leading-edge hearing protective devices.
Many of Sordin’s products are compatible with our other safety products, including our flagship V-Gard® Hard
Hat. Sordin also developed the modular integrated communications system currently being used with the
Advanced Combat Helmet that we manufacture for the U.S. Army.

19

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Year Ended December 31, 2006 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2005

Net sales. Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2006 were $913.7 million, an increase of $5.8 million,

or 1%, from $907.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2005.

2006

2005

Dollar
Increase
(Decrease)

Percent
Increase
(Decrease)

North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$503.4
219.2
191.1

(In millions)
$566.5
180.5
160.9

$(63.1)
38.7
30.2

(11)%
21
19

Net sales of the North American segment were $503.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2006, a

decrease of $63.1 million, or 11%, compared to $566.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2005. Our
shipments of Advanced Combat Helmets and communications systems to the military were approximately
$48.3 million lower than in the 2005, reflecting the completion of certain contracts. Gas mask sales were
approximately $28.8 million lower in the year ended December 31, 2006, on lower shipments of military masks,
as well as commercial masks to the homeland security market. Our 2006 sales of self-contained breathing
apparatus and thermal imaging cameras were $11.1 million and $6.6 million lower, respectively, than in the prior
year reflecting ongoing delays in the release of fire department funding made available through the U.S.
Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. The first grants under the 2006 AFG program were not
announced until early October and less than half of the expected funds were released by year-end. In 2005, AFG
grants were announced in August and were mostly completed by the end of the year. Our sales of instruments
and head protection improved approximately $18.4 million and $7.5 million, respectively, on increased demand
in construction and industrial markets. Sales of ballistic protection products, including those made by Paraclete,
which we acquired in September 2006, were $7.0 million higher than in the year ended December 31, 2005.

Net sales by European operations were $219.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2006, an increase of

$38.7 million, or 21%, from $180.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2005. Local currency sales in
Europe for the year ended December 31, 2006 were $35.9 million higher than in 2005. The increase reflects
strong shipments of disposable respirators in Germany and France, gas masks and self-rescuer canisters to the
German Army, chemical suits to the Slovakian Army, and breathing apparatus and fire helmets in Western
European markets. The favorable effect of a stronger euro increased sales when stated in U.S. dollars by
approximately $2.8 million.

Net sales by International operations were $191.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2006 compared

to $160.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2005, an increase of $30.2 million, or 19%. The sales increase
was primarily in South Africa, where local currency sales were up $27.2 million, primarily from Select PPE,
which we acquired in January 2006. Local currency sales were up approximately $5.8 million in our South
American companies, reflecting improved economic conditions and focused sales initiatives. Our sales in the
Middle East were approximately $3.6 million lower than in the year ended December 31, 2005. In 2005, our
Middle East sales benefited from a large one-time breathing apparatus order. Currency exchange effects on
International segment sales when stated in U.S. dollars were not significant.

Cost of products sold. Cost of products sold was $568.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2006, an

increase of $9.5 million, or 2%, from $558.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2005.

Cost of products sold and operating expenses include net periodic pension benefit costs and credits.
Excluding $4.8 million in special termination benefits, which is reported in restructuring and other charges,
pension credits, combined with pension costs, resulted in net pension credits for the year ended December 31,
2006 of $4.1 million, of which approximately $2.2 million was included in cost of products sold, $1.6 million in

20

selling general and administrative expenses, and $0.3 million in research and development expenses. Net pension
credits for the year ended December 31, 2005 were $6.1 million, of which approximately $3.7 million was
included in cost of products sold, $2.2 million in selling, general and administrative expenses, and $0.2 million in
research and development expenses. The recognition of pension income in the years ended December 31, 2006
and 2005 is primarily the result of the exceptional investment performance of the MSA Non-Contributory
Pension Plan for the Employees, or the MSA Pension Plan, over the past ten years. During that period, the
investment performance of the MSA Pension Plan has ranked among the top 1% of all U.S. pension funds
according to a comparison of fund performance as computed by Yanni Partners, an independent investment
consulting firm. Future net pension credits can be volatile depending on the future performance of plan assets,
changes in actuarial assumptions regarding such factors as the selection of discount rates and rates of return on
plan assets, changes in the amortization levels of actuarial gains and losses, plan amendments affecting benefit
pay-out levels, and profile changes in the participant populations being valued. Changes in any of these factors
could cause net pension credits to change. To the extent net pension credits decline in the future, our net income
would be adversely affected.

Gross profit. Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2006 was $345.3 million, a decrease of

$3.7 million, or 1%, from $349.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2005. The ratio of gross profit to sales
decreased to 37.8% in 2006 compared to 38.4% in 2005. The lower gross profit ratio in 2006 was primarily
related to lower margins in the International and European segments where sales grew significantly.

Selling, general and administrative expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the year
ended December 31, 2006 were $215.7 million, an increase of $14.3 million, or 7%, from $201.4 million for the
year ended December 31, 2005. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 23.6% of sales in 2006
compared to 22.2% of sales in 2005. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses includes
$2.3 million of incremental stock compensation expense in the North American segment, related to our adoption
of FAS No. 123R, Share Based Payment, on January 1, 2006. FAS No. 123R requires the recognition of
compensation expense for the estimated fair value of stock option grants and immediate expense recognition for
restricted stock awards and stock options that are granted to participants who are eligible for retirement. The
incremental stock compensation expense relates to restricted stock awards and stock option grants made to
officers, key management employees, and directors in 2006. The fair value of the 2006 stock option grants and
restricted stock awards was $4.9 million, of which $2.8 million was expensed during the year ended
December 31, 2006. The remaining $2.1 million of fair value will generally be expensed over the remainder of
the three year vesting periods. Excluding the incremental stock compensation expense, selling, general and
administrative expenses in North America were down $0.8 million, reflecting the absence of depreciation
expense in 2006 on computer systems that were fully depreciated during the fourth quarter of 2005, partially
offset by higher selling and administrative expenses. Local currency selling, general and administrative expenses
in the European and International segments were up $12.2 million, including a $4.9 million increase in South
Africa, related to the January 2006 acquisition of Select PPE. The remainder of the selling, general and
administrative expense increase in the European and International segments was primarily due to additional
selling expenses associated with generating and supporting higher sales and currency exchange rate effects, when
stated in U.S. dollars.

Research and development expenses. Research and development expenses were $26.0 million for the year

ended December 31, 2006, an increase of $4.1 million, or 19%, from $21.9 million for the year ended
December 31, 2005. Higher research and development expenses during the year ended December 31, 2006
occurred in North America and reflect our continued focus on developing innovative new products.

Depreciation and amortization expense. Depreciation and amortization expense, which is reported in cost

of sales, selling, general and administrative expenses, and research and development expenses, was $22.1 million
for the year ended December 31, 2006, a decrease of $2.2 million, or 9%, from $24.3 million for the year ended
December 31, 2005. The primary reason for lower depreciation expense was the previously-discussed decrease in
depreciation of computer systems.

21

Restructuring and other charges. During the year ended December 31, 2006, we recorded charges of

$7.0 million, primarily related to our Project Outlook reorganization in North America. Project Outlook was
designed to ensure that our North American management teams, employees, product design processes, and
operational functions are fully aligned with our strategic goals and the needs of our customers. The plan, which
was largely completed by the end of the second quarter, included the reorganization of business and support
functions in our North American operations that is resulting in a higher degree of collaboration, focus and
efficiency. A significant portion of the Project Outlook cost reductions has been realized through a focused
voluntary retirement incentive program (VRIP). In February 2006, approximately 60 employees retired under the
terms of the VRIP. Project Outlook charges include $5.3 million for VRIP retirees (including $4.8 million in
non-cash special termination benefits), $0.7 million in severance costs related to additional staffing reductions,
and $0.5 million related to the relocation of various employee work groups within the new organizational
structure. The remaining $0.5 million of charges in 2006 was severance costs related to our plan to discontinue
manufacturing operations in Britain.

Interest expense. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2006 was $6.2 million, an increase of

$0.7 million, or 14%, from $5.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2005. The increase reflects higher
borrowings during the current year.

Currency exchange adjustments. During the year ended December 31, 2006, we recorded currency
exchange losses of $3.1 million compared to losses of $0.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2005. The
currency exchange losses during the current year were primarily related to the South African rand. Currency
exchange losses during the year ended December 31, 2005 were primarily due to the weakening of the euro.

Other income. Other income for the year ended December 31, 2006 was $5.4 million, an increase of

$1.3 million, or 33%, from $4.1 million in 2005. The increase was primarily due to gains on the sale of real
property and higher interest income.

Income tax provision. The provision for income taxes as a percent of income before taxes was 31.0% for

the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to 33.9% for the year ended December 31, 2005. Our provision for
income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2006 includes one-time benefits of $1.2 million and $0.8 million
related to adjustments to prior year additional extra-territorial income exclusions and research and development
credits, respectively. Our 2005 provision for income taxes included a one-time benefit of approximately $2.0
million, primarily related to the release of previously-established reserves taken on research and development
credits claimed for the years 1995 through 2001. Excluding these discrete items, our effective tax rate for the
years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005 were 33.2% and 35.6%, respectively. The effective tax rate in both
years was lower than the statutory rate primarily due to research and development credits, extraterritorial income
exclusions, and non-U.S. income. Compared to prior years, the 2006 effective tax rate also benefits from a more
favorable state income tax apportionment.

We have not provided deferred U.S. income taxes on undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries, which

amounted to $137.2 million as of December 31, 2006. These earnings are considered to be reinvested for an
indefinite period of time. It is not practicable to determine the deferred tax liability on these undistributed
earnings.

The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 provided a limited opportunity through 2005 to repatriate the
undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries at a U.S. tax cost that could be lower than the normal tax cost on
such distributions. During 2005, we repatriated $23.2 million of dividends, $21.0 million of which qualified
under these provisions. The resulting impact of these dividends on our income tax expense was not material.

The determination of annual income tax expense takes into consideration amounts which may be needed to
cover exposures for open tax years. We have resolved all matters with the IRS related to our federal income tax
returns through 2002. We believe that we have made adequate provision for income taxes and interest which may

22

become payable or receivable for years not yet settled. We do not expect any materially adverse impact on
earnings to result from the resolution of matters related to open tax years.

Net income. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2006 was $63.9 million, a decrease of

$17.9 million, or 22%, from net income for the year ended December 31, 2005 of $81.8 million. Basic earnings
per share of common stock was $1.76 in 2006 compared to $2.24 in 2005.

North American segment net income for the year ended December 31, 2006 was $42.7 million, a decrease

of $21.4 million, or 34%, from $64.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2005. The decrease in
North American net income was primarily due to lower sales.

European segment net income for the year ended December 31, 2006 was $8.9 million, an increase of
$2.6 million, or 40%, from $6.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2005. The increase was primarily
related to the previously-discussed sales improvement.

International segment net income for the year ended December 31, 2006 was $13.1 million, an increase of

$1.4 million, or 12%, from $11.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2005. The improvement in
International segment net income was primarily related to the previously-discussed sales growth.

Year Ended December 31, 2005 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2004

Net sales. Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2005 were $907.9 million, an increase of

$55.4 million, or 6%, from $852.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2004. Our net sales increased in all
segments as follows:

North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$566.5
180.5
160.9

(In millions)
$557.1
167.3
128.1

$ 9.4
13.2
32.8

2%
8
26

2005

2004

Dollar
Increase

Percent
Increase

Net sales of the North American segment were $566.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2005, an
increase of $9.4 million, or 2%, compared to $557.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2004. The sales
increase in the year ended December 31, 2005 was due to higher shipments of Advanced Combat Helmets and
related communication systems, head protection, and instruments, partially offset by lower shipments of SCBAs
and gas masks. Our shipments of Advanced Combat Helmets and communications systems to the military
improved during 2005 by approximately $8.3 million and $11.5 million, respectively, reflecting continued
government funding to support the war on terrorism. Our sales of head protection, instruments, and fall
protection were up approximately $10.7 million, $6.5 million, and $3.4 million, respectively, on increased
demand in construction and industrial markets. In the fire service market, our SCBA sales were down
approximately $13.3 million compared to 2004. We believe that the decrease in SCBA sales was primarily due to
delays in 2005 federal funding to local fire departments under the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. Our
2005 SCBA sales rebounded late in the year after this funding was released to local fire departments. Gas mask
sales were approximately $17.1 million lower than in 2004. The decrease in gas mask sales in 2005 reflects lower
shipments of military masks, as well as commercial masks to the homeland security market, following very
strong demand in 2004. During 2004, we saw significant demand for gas masks in the homeland security market.
Although we saw significant interest and demand for the Evolution 5200 thermal imaging camera, sales of TICs
were flat year-to-year due to production delays caused by a parts supply issue with a key vendor that was not
resolved until the third quarter of 2005.

Net sales by European operations were $180.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2005, an increase of
$13.2 million, or 8%, from $167.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2004. Approximately $6.1 million of

23

the sales increase related to hearing protection sales by MSA Sordin, which we acquired in June 2004. Local
currency sales by other companies throughout Europe improved approximately $4.1 million during 2005, on
several large breathing apparatus orders for the fire service and police markets. Approximately $3.0 million of
the European segment sales increase was due to favorable exchange rate effects on the translation of local
currency sales to U.S. dollars.

Net sales by International operations were $160.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2005 compared

to $128.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $32.8 million, or 26%. Local currency
sales were up approximately $6.0 million in our South American companies, reflecting improved economic
conditions and focused sales initiatives. Our sales in the Middle East were approximately $5.8 million higher
during 2005, primarily due to a large breathing apparatus order. Operations in China and Australia reported sales
increases of approximately $5.4 million and $4.5 million, respectively, for the year. Approximately $5.5 million
of the 2005 increase in International segment sales, when stated in U.S. dollars, was related to the favorable
effect of stronger international currencies, particularly the Brazilian real, Australian dollar, and South African
rand.

Cost of products sold. Cost of products sold was $558.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2005, an

increase of $40.7 million, or 8%, from $518.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2004.

Cost of products sold and operating expenses include net periodic pension benefit costs and credits. Pension

credits, combined with pension costs, resulted in net pension credits for the year ended December 31, 2005 of
$6.1 million, of which approximately $3.7 million was included in cost of products sold, $2.2 million in selling
general and administrative expenses, and $0.2 million in research and development expenses. Net pension credits
for the year ended December 31, 2004 were $7.2 million, of which approximately $4.4 million was included in
cost of products sold, $2.5 million in selling, general and administrative expenses, and $0.3 million in research
and development expenses.

Gross profit. Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2005 was $349.0 million, an increase of
$14.7 million, or 4%, from $334.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2004. The ratio of gross profit to
sales decreased to 38.4% in 2005 compared to 39.2% in 2004. The lower gross profit ratio in 2005 was primarily
due to sales mix changes in North America, on proportionately lower sales of higher margin SCBAs and gas
masks and proportionately higher sales of Advanced Combat Helmets and communication systems to the U.S.
military at gross margins that are generally lower than our margins on commercial sales.

Selling, general and administrative expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the year

ended December 31, 2005 were $201.4 million, an increase of $2.7 million, or 1%, from $198.7 million for the
year ended December 31, 2004. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 22.2% of sales in 2005
compared to 23.3% of sales in 2004. North American segment selling, general and administrative expenses for
the year ended December 31, 2005 were approximately $3.7 million lower than in 2004, reflecting the favorable
effect of cost control efforts. Exchange effects related to the strengthening of international currencies,
particularly the euro, Brazilian real, and Australian dollar, increased selling, general and administrative expenses
for the year ended December 31, 2005 by approximately $2.8 million. The remainder of the increase during 2005
reflects higher local currency expenses in the European and International segments, on higher sales volumes, and
includes an increase of approximately $1.3 million at MSA Sordin, which was acquired in June 2004.

Research and development expenses. Research and development expenses were $21.9 million for the year

ended December 31, 2005, a decrease of $0.7 million, or 3%, from $22.6 million for the year ended
December 31, 2004. The decrease occurred primarily in North America and was due to the previously-mentioned
cost control efforts.

Depreciation and amortization expense. Depreciation and amortization expense, which is reported in cost

of sales, selling, general and administrative expenses, and research and development expenses, was $24.3 million

24

for the year ended December 31, 2005, a decrease of $1.2 million, or 5%, from $25.5 million for the year ended
December 31, 2004. The decrease was primarily due to lower depreciation on Advanced Combat Helmet
production equipment and our enterprise-wide system software.

Interest expense. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2005 was $5.5 million, an increase of

$1.7 million, or 43%, from $3.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2004. The increase was primarily
related to higher short term borrowings during the year ended December 31, 2005. Interest expense in 2004 was
favorably affected by a realized gain of $0.7 million on an interest rate swap transaction that we terminated.

Currency exchange adjustments. During the year ended December 31, 2005, we recorded currency

exchange losses of $0.5 million compared to losses of $0.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2004.
Currency exchange losses in 2005 were primarily related to euro-denominated assets held by us, and reflected a
weakening of that currency during 2005. The currency exchange loss during 2004 was primarily due to losses on
forward exchange contracts that we entered into to hedge our exposure to movements in euro exchange rates,
partially offset by some strengthening of the euro.

Other income. Other income for the year ended December 31, 2005 was $4.1 million, a decrease of
$0.9 million, or 19%, from $5.0 million in 2004. During the year ended December 31, 2005, we recognized a
gain of approximately $0.7 million on the sale of idle production equipment in Germany and interest income of
approximately $0.5 million related to settled issues in the IRS audits of tax years 1995 through 2001. In 2004, we
recognized approximately $1.1 million of interest income with respect to settled issues in the audits of tax years
1995 through 2001.

Income tax provision. Our effective income tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2005 was 33.9%
compared to 37.6% for the year ended December 31, 2004. In June 2005, we received communication from the
Internal Revenue Service indicating that their audits of our federal income tax returns for the years 1995 through
2001 were substantially complete, with no adverse adjustments to research and development credits that we claimed
during the period covered by the examinations. On the basis of this communication, our provision for income taxes
for the year ended December 31, 2005 included a one-time benefit of approximately $2.0 million, primarily related
to the release of previously-established reserves taken on research and development credits claimed in those years.
In 2004, we made unfavorable adjustments to prior years’ taxes at approximately $1.1 million.

The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 provided a limited opportunity through 2005 to repatriate the
undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries at a U.S. tax cost that could be lower than the normal tax cost on
such distributions. During 2005, we repatriated $23.2 million of dividends, $21.0 million of which qualified
under these provisions. The resulting impact of these dividends on our income tax expense was not material.

Net income. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2005 was $81.8 million, an increase of

$10.8 million, or 15%, over net income for the year ended December 31, 2004 of $71.0 million. Basic earnings
per share of common stock improved to $2.24 in 2005 compared to $1.91 in 2004.

North American segment net income for the year ended December 31, 2005 was $64.1 million, an increase

of $7.5 million, or 13%, from $56.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2004. The improvement in
North American net income was primarily due to the previously-discussed sales growth, cost controls and a
lower effective income tax rate.

European segment net income for the year ended December 31, 2005 was $6.3 million, an increase of

$2.5 million, or 68%, from $3.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2004. The increase included
approximately $1.1 million of income related to Sordin which we acquired in June 2004. The remainder of the
improvement was primarily related to the previously-discussed sales improvement.

25

International segment net income for the year ended December 31, 2005 was $11.7 million, an increase of

$1.1 million, or 10%, from $10.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2004. The improvement in
International segment net income was primarily related to the previously-discussed sales growth.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Our main sources of liquidity are cash generated from operations and borrowing capacity. Our principal

liquidity requirements are for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, and principal and interest
payments on outstanding indebtedness.

Cash and cash equivalents increased $16.5 million during 2006 compared to decreasing $31.7 million

during 2005.

Operations provided cash of $62.8 million in 2006 compared to providing $80.6 million in 2005. Lower

cash flow from operations during 2006 was primarily due to the decrease in net income and an increase in
noncurrent assets. Trade receivables were $174.6 million at December 31, 2006 and $169.4 million at
December 31, 2005. The increase in trade receivables during 2006 was primarily related to acquisitions and
currency translation. Trade receivables expressed in number of days sales outstanding were 70 days at
December 31, 2006 and 68 days at December 31, 2005. Inventories were $137.2 million at December 31, 2006
and $119.7 million at December 31, 2005. Over two-thirds of the increase in inventory was related to currencies
translation and acquisitions. On a FIFO basis, inventories measured against cost of products sold turned 3.2 times
in 2006 and 3.5 times in 2005. Cash flow from operations in 2005 was $31.7 million higher than in 2004,
reflecting less use of cash for working capital, particularly inventory.

Discontinued operations provided $2.1 million of cash in 2004, primarily through collection of trade

receivables that were reported as assets held for sale at December 31, 2003.

Our investing activities used cash of $50.1 million in 2006, compared with using $37.3 million in 2005.
During 2006 and 2005, we used cash of approximately $22.7 million and $21.7 million, respectively, for property
additions, primarily production equipment in the U.S. Acquisitions and other investing activities during 2006 and
2005 used cash of $31.3 million and $17.0 million, respectively. In 2006, we used net cash of approximately
$21.8 million to acquire Paraclete and $7.9 million to acquire Select PPE. In 2005, we used net cash of
approximately $12.8 million for the acquisition of Microsensor Systems Inc. and $2.2 million for additional
consideration on the Sordin acquisition.

Financing activities provided cash of $1.4 million in 2006 compared to using cash of $72.6 million in 2005.

In December 2006, we borrowed $60.0 million in private placement debt, primarily to replace short term
borrowing made during the year to fund acquisitions and treasury stock purchases. During 2006 and 2005, we
used cash of $29.9 million and $58.0 million, respectively, to purchase treasury shares. In the current year, we
made dividend payments of $24.8 million, compared to $19.1 million in 2005. Dividends paid on our common
stock during 2006 (our 89th consecutive year of dividend payment) were $0.68 per share. Dividends paid on our
common stock in 2005 and 2004 were $0.52 and $0.37, per share, respectively.

In April 2004, we entered into an eight year interest rate swap agreement. Under the terms of the agreement,
we receive a fixed interest rate of 8.39% and pay a floating interest rate based on LIBOR. The notional amount of
the swap is initially $20.0 million and declines $4.0 million per year beginning in 2008. The interest rate swap
has been designated as a fair value hedge of a portion of our fixed rate 8.39% Senior Notes.

The fair value of the interest rate swap at December 31, 2006, has been recorded as a liability of

$0.9 million that is included in other noncurrent liabilities, with an offsetting reduction in the carrying value of
the long-term debt.

26

As a result of entering into the interest rate swap, we have increased our exposure to interest rate

fluctuations. Differences between the fixed rate amounts received and the variable rate amount paid are
recognized in interest expense on an ongoing basis. This rate difference resulted in an increase in interest expense
of approximately $0.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2006 and reductions in interest expense of
$0.1 million during 2005 and $0.3 million during 2004.

Long-term debt, including the current portion at December 31, 2006 was $114.6 million, or 21% of total
capital. For purposes of this calculation, total capital is defined as long-term debt plus the current portion of long-
term debt and shareholders’ equity.

Our long-term debt obligations at December 31, 2006 and 2005 were as follows:

U.S.

Industrial development debt issues payable through 2022, 5.46% . . . . . . .
Series B Senior Notes payable through 2006, 7.69% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Senior Notes payable through 2012, 8.39% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Senior Notes payable through 2022, 5.41% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Notes payable through 2011, net of unamortized discount of $1,306 . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

International

Various notes payable through 2008, 5.80% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amounts due within one year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Long-term debt

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2006

2005

(In thousands)

$

6,750
—
39,089
60,000
8,694
—

38

114,571
2,030

112,541

$10,750
4,000
39,070
—
—
50

98

53,968
8,134

45,834

Approximate maturities of these obligations are $2.0 million in 2007, $10.0 million in 2008, $10.8 million

in 2009, $12.0 million in 2010, $8.7 million in 2011, and $71.1 million thereafter. Some debt agreements require
us to maintain certain financial ratios and minimum net worth and contain restrictions on the total amount of
debt. We were in compliance with our debt covenants as of December 31, 2006.

Short-term bank lines of credit amounted to $80.6 million of which $80.3 million was unused at

December 31, 2006. Generally, these short-term lines of credit are renewable annually. There are no significant
commitment fees or compensating balance requirements. Short-term borrowings with banks, which exclude the
current portion of long-term debt, were $0.3 million and $0.7 million at December 31, 2006 and 2005,
respectively. The average month-end balance of total short-term borrowings during 2006 was $19.7 million. The
maximum month-end balance of $62.6 million occurred at October 31, 2006. The weighted average interest rates
of short-term borrowings at December 31, 2006 and 2005 were 5% and 6%, respectively.

We believe our sources of liquidity currently available from our cash reserves on hand, cash flow from
operations, and borrowing capacity are sufficient to meet our principal liquidity requirements for at least the next
12 months.

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SECURITIZATION

In August 2004, we terminated our securitization arrangement with a financial institution under which Mine

Safety Funding Corporation, a consolidated wholly-owned bankruptcy remote subsidiary, could sell up to
$30.0 million of eligible accounts receivable to a multi-seller asset-backed commercial paper issuer. We
terminated this arrangement because we no longer required the source of funding that the securitization provided.

27

CUMULATIVE TRANSLATION ADJUSTMENTS

The year-end position of the U.S. dollar relative to international currencies resulted in a translation gain of

$10.1 million being credited to the cumulative translation adjustments shareholders’ equity account in 2006,
compared to a loss of $11.1 million in 2005 and a gain of $8.9 million in 2004. Translation gains in 2006 were
primarily related to the strengthening of the euro. Translation losses in 2005 were primarily due to a weakening
of the euro. Translation gains in 2004 were primarily due to the strengthening of the euro, Australian dollar, and
South African rand.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

We are obligated to make future payments under various contracts, including debt and lease agreements.

Our significant cash obligations as of December 31, 2006 were as follows:

Total

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Thereafter

Long-term debt* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating leases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Take or pay supply contract
Totals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$114.6
27.0
2.5
144.1

$ 2.0
7.9
1.5
11.4

$10.0
5.8
1.0
16.8

* Future interest payments are not included in the table above.

(In millions)
$10.8
4.7
—
15.5

$12.0
4.2
—
16.2

$ 8.7
2.8
—
11.5

$71.1
1.6
—
72.7

We expect to make net contributions of $1.7 million to our pension plans in 2007.

We have purchase commitments for materials, supplies, services, and property, plant and equipment as part

of our ordinary conduct of business.

In September 2006, we acquired Paraclete. Under the terms of the asset purchase agreement, we issued a

$10.0 million note payable to the former owners of Paraclete. The note is non-interest bearing and is payable in
five annual installments of $2.0 million beginning September 1, 2007. We recorded the note at a fair value of
$8.5 million at the time of issuance. The discount of $1.5 million is being amortized over the term of the note.

During 2003, we sold our real property in Berlin, Germany for $25.7 million, resulting in a gain of

$13.6 million. At the same time, we entered into an eight year agreement to lease back the portion of the property
that we occupy. Under sale-leaseback accounting, $12.1 million of the gain was deferred and is being amortized
over the term of the lease.

In 2003, we entered into a lease agreement with BASF pertaining to that portion of the Callery Chemical
site that is occupied by our Evans City, Pennsylvania manufacturing operations. The initial term of the lease was
one year, with a renewal option for five successive one year periods. In September 2006, we exercised our third
one year renewal option.

Various lawsuits and claims arising in the normal course of business are pending against us. These lawsuits

are primarily product liability claims. We are presently named as a defendant in approximately 2,500 lawsuits
primarily involving respiratory protection products allegedly manufactured and sold by us. Collectively, these
lawsuits represent a total of approximately 16,750 plaintiffs. Approximately 90% of these lawsuits involve
plaintiffs alleging they suffer from silicosis, with the remainder alleging they suffer from other or combined
injuries, including asbestosis. These lawsuits typically allege that these conditions resulted in part from
respirators that were negligently designed or manufactured by us. Consistent with the experience of other
companies involved in silica and asbestos-related litigation, in recent years there has been an increase in the
number of asserted claims that could potentially involve us. We cannot determine our potential maximum
liability for such claims, in part because the defendants in these lawsuits are often numerous, and the claims
generally do not specify the amount of damages sought.

28

With some limited exceptions, we maintain insurance against product liability claims. We also maintain a
reserve for uninsured product liability based on expected settlement charges for pending claims and an estimate
of unreported claims derived from experience, sales volumes and other relevant information. We evaluate our
exposures on an ongoing basis and make adjustments to the reserve as appropriate. Based on information
currently available, we believe that the disposition of matters that are pending will not have a materially adverse
effect on our financial condition.

In the normal course of business, we make payments to settle product liability claims and related legal fees

that are covered by insurance. We record receivables for the portion of these payments that we believe to be
probable of recovery from insurance carriers. The net balance of receivables from insurance carriers was $18.4
million and $5.0 million at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. We evaluate the collectibility of these
receivables on an ongoing basis and make adjustments as appropriate.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

We prepare our consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally

accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make
estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the
related disclosures. We evaluate these estimates and judgments on an on-going basis based on historical
experience and various assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. However, different
amounts could be reported if we had used different assumptions and in light of different facts and circumstances.
Actual amounts could differ from the estimates and judgments reflected in our financial statements.

We believe that the following are the more critical judgments and estimates used in preparation of our

financial statements.

Accounting for contingencies. We accrue for contingencies in accordance with FAS No. 5, Accounting for
Contingencies, when we believe that it is probable that a liability or loss has been incurred and the amount can be
reasonably estimated. Contingencies relate to uncertainties that require our judgment both in assessing whether
or not a liability or loss has been incurred and in estimating the amount of the probable loss. Significant
contingencies affecting our financial statements include pending or threatened litigation, including product
liability claims, and product warranties.

Product liability. We face an inherent business risk of exposure to product liability claims arising from the
alleged failure of our products to prevent the types of personal injury or death against which they are designed to
protect. We accrue for our estimates of the probable costs to be incurred in the resolution of product liability
claims. These estimates are based on actuarial valuations, past experience, and our judgments regarding the
probable outcome of pending and threatened claims. Due to uncertainty as to the ultimate outcome of pending
and threatened claims, as well as the incidence of future claims, it is possible that future results could be
materially affected by changes in our assumptions and estimates related to product liability matters. Our product
liability expense averaged less than 1% of net sales during the three years ended December 31, 2006.

Product warranties. We accrue for the estimated probable cost of product warranties at the time that sales
are recognized. Our estimates are principally based on historical experience. We also accrue for our estimates of
the probable costs of corrective action when significant product quality issues are identified. These estimates are
principally based on our assumptions regarding the cost of corrective action and the probable number of units to
be repaired or replaced. Our product warranty obligation is affected by product failure rates, material usage, and
service delivery costs incurred in correcting a product failure. Due to the uncertainty and potential volatility of
these factors, it is possible that future results could be materially affected by changes in our assumptions or the
effectiveness of our strategies related to these matters. Our product warranty expense averaged less than 2% of
net sales during the three years ended December 31, 2006.

29

Income taxes. We account for income taxes in accordance with FAS No. 109, Accounting for Income
Taxes, which requires that deferred tax assets and liabilities be recognized using enacted tax rates for the effect
of temporary differences between the book and tax basis of recorded assets and liabilities. FAS No. 109 also
requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by valuation allowances if it is more likely than not that some portion
of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.

We record valuation allowances to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts that we estimate are probable
to be realized. When assessing the need for valuation allowances, we consider projected future taxable income
and prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. Should a change in circumstances lead to a change in our
judgments about the realizability of deferred tax assets in future years, we would adjust the related valuation
allowances in the period that the change in circumstances occurs, along with a corresponding charge or credit to
income. There were no valuation allowances as of December 31, 2006.

We record an estimated income tax liability based on our best judgment of the amounts likely to be paid in

the various tax jurisdictions in which we operate. The tax liabilities ultimately paid are dependent on a number of
factors, including the resolution of tax audits, and may differ from the amounts recorded. Tax liabilities are
adjusted through income when it becomes probable that the actual liability differs from the amount recorded.

Pensions and other postretirement benefits. We account for our pension and postretirement benefit plans as
required under FAS No. 87, Employers’ Accounting for Pensions, and FAS No. 106, Employers’ Accounting for
Postretirement Benefits Other than Pensions. Accounting for the net periodic benefit costs and credits for these
plans requires us to estimate the cost of benefits to be provided well into the future and to attribute these costs
over the expected work life of the employees participating in these plans. These estimates require our judgment
about discount rates used to determine these obligations, expected returns on plan assets, rates of future
compensation increases, rates of increase in future health care costs, participant withdrawal and mortality rates,
and participant retirement ages. Differences between our estimates and actual results may significantly affect the
cost of our obligations under these plans and could cause net periodic benefit costs and credits to change
materially from year-to-year. The discount rate assumptions used in determining projected benefit obligations are
based on published long-term bond indices. We increased the assumed discount rates in 2006, reflecting an
increase in long-term bond rates.

Goodwill. As required by FAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, each year we evaluate for

goodwill impairment by comparing the fair value of each of our reporting units with its carrying value. If
carrying value exceeds fair value, then a possible impairment of goodwill exists and requires further evaluation.
We estimate the fair value of our reporting units using a combination of discounted cash flow analysis and
market capitalization based on historical and projected financial information. We apply our best judgment in
assessing the reasonableness of the financial projections and other estimates used to determine the fair value of
each reporting unit.

RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

In September 2006, the FASB issued FAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. FAS No. 157 defines fair
value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and expands
disclosures about fair value measurements. The provisions of this standard apply to other accounting
pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements. FAS No. 157 becomes effective on January 1,
2008. Upon adoption, the provisions of FAS No. 157 are to be applied prospectively with limited exceptions. We
do not expect that the adoption of this statement will have a material effect on our consolidated results of
operations or financial condition.

In June 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes

(an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109). This interpretation was issued to clarify the accounting for
uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the financial statements by prescribing a recognition threshold and

30

measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or
expected to be taken in a tax return. This interpretation is effective beginning January 1, 2007, with the
cumulative effect of the change in accounting principle recorded as an adjustment to opening retained earnings.
We are currently evaluating our tax positions and do not anticipate that this interpretation should have a
significant effect on our results.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Market risk represents the risk of adverse changes in the value of a financial instrument caused by changes
in currency exchange rates, interest rates, and equity prices. We are exposed to market risks related to currency
exchange rates and interest rates.

Currency exchange rate sensitivity. We are subject to the effects of fluctuations in currency exchange rates

on various transactions and on the translation of the reported financial position and operating results of our
non-U.S. companies from local currencies to U.S. dollars. A hypothetical 10% strengthening or weakening of the
U.S. dollar would increase or decrease our reported sales and net income for the year ended December 31, 2006
by approximately $41.0 million and $2.2 million, respectively. When appropriate, we may attempt to limit our
transactional exposure to changes in currency exchange rates through contracts or other actions intended to
reduce existing exposures by creating offsetting currency exposures. At December 31, 2006, contracts for the
purpose of hedging cash flows were not significant.

Interest Rate Sensitivity. We are exposed to changes in interest rates primarily as a result of borrowing and

investing activities used to maintain liquidity and fund business operations. Because of the relatively short
maturities of temporary investments and the variable rate nature of industrial development debt, these financial
instruments are reported at carrying values which approximate fair values.

We hold one interest rate swap agreement, which is used to hedge the fair market value on a portion of our

8.39% fixed rate long-term debt. At December 31, 2006, the swap agreement had a notional amount of
$20.0 million and a fair market value in favor of the bank of $0.9 million. The swap will expire in 2012. The
notional amount of the swap declines $4.0 million per year beginning in 2008. A hypothetical increase of 10% in
market interest rates would result in a decrease of approximately $0.4 million in the fair value of the interest rate
swap.

We have $100.0 million of fixed rate debt which matures at various dates through 2022. The incremental
increase in the fair value of fixed rate long-term debt resulting from a hypothetical 10% decrease in interest rates
would be approximately $2.1 million, excluding the impact of outstanding hedge instruments. However, our
sensitivity to interest rate declines and the corresponding increase in the fair value of our debt portfolio would
unfavorably affect earnings and cash flows only to the extent that we elected to repurchase or retire all or a
portion of our fixed rate debt portfolio at prices above carrying values.

31

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Management’s Reports

Management’s Report on Responsibility for Financial Reporting

Management of Mine Safety Appliances Company (the Company) is responsible for the preparation of the

financial statements included in this annual report. The financial statements were prepared in accordance with
accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and include amounts that are based on
the best estimates and judgments of management. The other financial information contained in this annual report
is consistent with the financial statements.

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial
reporting. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable
assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external
purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that (1) pertain to
the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of
assets; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of
financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and
expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and the directors of the
Company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized
acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on our financial
statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect
misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that
controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the
policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2006. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework.
Based on our assessment and those criteria, management has concluded that the Company maintained effective
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006.

Our management’s assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial

reporting as of December 31, 2006 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered
public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears herein.

/s/

JOHN T. RYAN III
John T. Ryan III
Chairman of the Board
Chief Executive Office

/s/ DENNIS L. ZEITLER

Dennis L. Zeitler
Vice President and Treasurer
Chief Financial Officer

February 28, 2007

32

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of Mine Safety Appliances Company:

We have completed integrated audits of Mine Safety Appliances Company’s consolidated financial
statements and of its internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, in accordance with the
standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Our opinions, based on our
audits, are presented below.

Consolidated financial statements

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of

income, cash flows, and changes in retained earnings and other comprehensive income present fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of Mine Safety Appliances Company and its subsidiaries at
December 31, 2006 and 2005, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years
in the period ended December 31, 2006 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the
United States of America. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits
of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
(United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about
whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit of financial statements includes
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing
the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

As discussed in Notes 8 and 11 to the consolidated financial statements, Mine Safety Appliances Company

changed the manner in which it accounts for stock-based compensation and defined benefit pension and
postretirement benefit plans in 2006.

Internal control over financial reporting

Also, in our opinion, management’s assessment, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on
Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial
reporting as of December 31, 2006 based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework
issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), is fairly stated, in
all material respects, based on those criteria. Furthermore, in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all
material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria
established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the COSO. The Company’s management is
responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express opinions on
management’s assessment and on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting
based on our audit. We conducted our audit of internal control over financial reporting in accordance with the
standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we
plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial
reporting was maintained in all material respects. An audit of internal control over financial reporting includes
obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, evaluating management’s assessment,
testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing such other
procedures as we consider necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis
for our opinions.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting

33

includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail,
accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable
assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made
only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable
assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the
company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect
misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that
controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the
policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
February 28, 2007

34

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
(In thousands, except per share amounts)

Year Ended December 31

2006

2005

2004

Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$913,714
5,384

$907,912
4,058

$852,509
5,004

Costs and expenses

Cost of products sold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Research and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring and other charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Currency exchange losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Basic earnings per common share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Diluted earnings per common share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

919,098

911,970

857,513

568,410
215,663
26,037
6,981
6,228
3,139

558,921
201,367
21,928
—
5,484
474

518,174
198,714
22,648
—
3,845
264

826,458

788,174

743,645

92,640
28,722

63,918

123,796
42,013

113,868
42,821

81,783

71,047

$

$

1.76

1.73

$

$

2.24

2.19

$

$

1.91

1.86

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

35

December 31

Assets
Current Assets

Property

Other Assets

Liabilities
Current Liabilities

Long-Term Debt
Other Liabilities

Shareholders’ Equity

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
(In thousands, except share amounts)

2006

2005

Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 61,296 $ 44,797
Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts of

$5,574 and $6,041 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid expenses and other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Machinery and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction in progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Less accumulated depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid pension cost
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other noncurrent assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . $
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employees’ compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Insurance and product liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Taxes on income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Pensions and other employee benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other noncurrent liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

174,569
137,230
18,577
25,187
416,859
4,448
85,269
281,965
7,279
378,961
(258,310)
120,651
211,018
29,676
79,360
41,056
898,620

169,436
119,731
17,868
25,394
377,226
4,815
83,929
268,167
4,686
361,597
(245,388)
116,209
140,575
19,364
55,654
16,329
725,357

2,340 $
39,441
20,931
15,588
8,654
40,481
127,435
112,541
110,966
100,969
8,856
460,767

8,808
40,935
18,483
13,807
7,063
41,763
130,859
45,834
80,656
75,511
10,100
342,960

Preferred stock, 4 1⁄ 2% cumulative, $50 par value (callable at

$52.50) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3,569

3,569

Common stock, no par value (shares outstanding:

2006—36,015,416 & 2005—36,545,984) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock compensation trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Treasury shares, at cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred stock compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
. . . . . . . . . . . .
Earnings retained in the business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total shareholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

57,826
(14,350)
(231,299)
(1,836)
28,090
595,853
437,853
898,620

50,887
(15,667)
(201,312)
(2,218)
(9,571)
556,709
382,397
725,357

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

36

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)

Year Ended December 31

Operating Activities

2006

2005

2004

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net (gain) loss on sale of investments and assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring and other charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other noncurrent assets and liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net

$ 63,918
22,147
(4,147)
(2,081)
4,843
3,934
(1,932)
(17,883)
905

$ 81,783
24,345
(6,104)
(408)
—
1,356
2,294
(1,674)
(1,388)

$ 71,047
25,496
(7,188)
63
—
895
7,106
(1,159)
836

Operating cash flow before changes in working capital

. . . . . . . . . . .

69,704

100,204

97,096

Receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaids and other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4,176
(5,374)
(6,362)
699

(17,080)
(1,348)
5,057
(6,190)

(23,519)
(27,422)
5,070
(4,390)

Increase in working capital

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(6,861)

(19,561)

(50,261)

Cash flow from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash flow from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash Flow From Operating Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

62,843
—

62,843

80,643
—

80,643

46,835
2,061

48,896

Investing Activities

Property additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property disposals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired and other investing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(22,734)
3,887
(31,301)

(21,664)
1,320
(16,955)

(27,330)
883
(6,391)

Cash Flow From Investing Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(50,148)

(37,299)

(32,838)

Financing Activities

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proceeds from long-term debt
Payments on long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proceeds from (payments on) short-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Company stock purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exercise of stock options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Excess tax benefit related to stock plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash Flow From Financing Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Beginning cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Ending cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Supplemental cash flow information:

59,819
(8,134)
(230)
(24,774)
(29,893)
1,900
2,703

1,391

2,413

16,499
44,797

61,296

—
(4,120)
(1,473)
(19,053)
(58,012)
4,707
5,361

—
(5,023)
566
(13,758)
(6,122)
4,910
4,946

(72,590)

(14,481)

(2,502)

1,724

(31,748)
76,545

44,797

3,301
73,244

76,545

Interest payments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax payments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 5,650
17,099

$

5,315
34,060

$ 4,632
37,329

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

37

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN RETAINED EARNINGS AND
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(In thousands)

Balances January 1, 2004 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cumulative translation adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minimum pension liability adjustments (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income

$ (6,037)

—
8,904
(1,074)

Retained
Earnings

$436,690
71,047
—
—

Comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

—

Common dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preferred dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(13,714)
(44)

Balances December 31, 2004 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cumulative translation adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minimum pension liability adjustments (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

493,979
81,783
—
—

Comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

—

Common dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preferred dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(19,011)
(42)

Balances December 31, 2005 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cumulative translation adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minimum pension liability adjustments (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adoption of FAS No. 158, net of tax of $16,932 . . . . . . . . . . . . .

556,709
63,918
—
—
—

Comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

—

Common dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preferred dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(24,732)
(42)

—

—
—

1,793
—
(11,070)
(294)

—

—
—

(9,571)

10,083
1,027
26,551

—

—
—

Balances December 31, 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

595,853

28,090

Comprehensive
Income

$ 71,047
8,904
(1,074)

78,877

$ 81,783
(11,070)
(294)

70,419

$ 63,918
10,083
1,027
—

75,028

(a) —Minimum pension liability adjustments in 2006, 2005, and 2004 are net of income taxes of $260, $189,

and $383, respectively.

Components of accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:

Cumulative translation adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minimum pension liability adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adoption of FAS No. 158 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 3,023
—
25,067

$(7,060) $ 4,010
(2,217)
—

(2,511)
—

Accumulated other comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

28,090

(9,571)

1,793

2006

2005

2004

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

38

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1—Significant Accounting Policies

Use of Estimates—The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles

generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date
of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Principles of Consolidation—The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the company

and all subsidiaries. Intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated. Certain prior year amounts have
been reclassified to conform with the current year presentation.

Currency Translation—The functional currency of all significant non-U.S. subsidiaries is the local
currency. Assets and liabilities of those operations are translated at year-end exchange rates. Income statement
accounts are translated using the average exchange rates for the reporting period. Translation adjustments for
these companies are reported as a component of shareholders’ equity and are not included in income. Foreign
currency transaction gains and losses are included in net income for the reporting period.

Cash Equivalents—Cash equivalents include temporary deposits with financial institutions and highly

liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less.

Inventories—Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Most U.S. inventories are valued on the

last-in, first-out (LIFO) cost method. Other inventories are valued on the average cost method or at standard costs
which approximate actual costs.

Property and Depreciation—Property is recorded at cost. Depreciation is computed using straight-line and

accelerated methods over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Expenditures for significant renewals and
improvements are capitalized. Ordinary repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. Gains or losses on
property dispositions are included in income and the cost and related depreciation are removed from the
accounts.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets—Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives are not

amortized, but are subject to impairment write-down tests. We test the goodwill of each of our reporting units for
impairment at least annually. For this purpose, we consider our reportable business segments to be our reporting
units. Fair value is estimated using discounted cash flow methodologies and market comparable information.
Other intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives.

Revenue Recognition—Revenue from the sale of products is recognized when title, ownership, and the risk

of loss have transferred to the customer, which generally occurs either when product is shipped to the customer
or, in the case of most U.S. distributor customers, when product is delivered to the customer’s delivery site. We
establish our shipping terms according to local practice and market characteristics. We do not ship product unless
we have an order or other documentation authorizing shipment to our customers. We make appropriate
provisions for uncollectible accounts receivable and product returns, both of which have historically been
insignificant in relation to our net sales. Certain distributor customers receive price rebates based on their level of
purchases and other performance criteria that are documented in established distributor programs. These rebates
are accrued as a reduction of net sales as they are earned by the customer.

Shipping and Handling—Shipping and handling expenses for products sold to customers are charged to

cost of products sold as incurred. Amounts billed to customers for shipping and handling are included in net
sales.

39

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

Product Warranties—Estimated expenses related to product warranties and additional service actions are

charged to cost of products sold in the period in which the related revenue is recognized or when significant
product quality issues are identified.

Research and Development—Research and development costs are expensed as incurred.

Income Taxes—Deferred income taxes are provided for temporary differences between financial and tax
reporting. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which
those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. If it is more likely than not that some portion
or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized, a valuation allowance is recognized. No provision is made for
possible U.S. taxes on the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries that are considered to be reinvested
indefinitely.

Stock-Based Compensation Plans—On January 1, 2006, we adopted Statement of FAS No. 123R, Share-

Based Payment, which requires that we recognize compensation expense for stock-based compensation based on
the grant date fair value. Except for retirement-eligible employees, for whom there is no requisite service period,
this expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service periods following the date of grant. For retirement-
eligible employees, this expense is recognized at the grant date. We elected the modified prospective application
method for adoption and prior period financial statements have not been restated. Prior to January 1, 2006, we
accounted for stock-based compensation in accordance with the provisions of APB Opinion No. 25, Accounting
for Stock Issued to Employees, and related interpretations, using the intrinsic value method, which resulted in no
compensation expense for stock options.

Derivative Instruments—We use derivative instruments to dampen the effects of changes in currency
exchange rates and to achieve a targeted mix of fixed and floating interest rates on outstanding debt. We do not
enter into derivative transactions for speculative purposes and do not hold derivative instruments for trading
purposes. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges are recorded in the
balance sheet as adjustments to the underlying hedged asset or liability. Changes in the fair value of derivative
instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment are recognized in the income statement in the
current period.

Note 2—Restructuring and Other Charges

During the year ended December 31, 2006, we recorded charges of $7.0 million ($4.4 million after tax),
primarily related to the Project Outlook reorganization plan in North America, which was completed during the
first half of the year.

Project Outlook was designed to ensure that our North American management teams, employees, product

design processes, and operational functions are fully aligned with our strategic goals and the needs of our
customers. The reorganization of business and support functions in our North American operations is expected to
result in cost reductions and a higher degree of collaboration, focus, and efficiency. A significant portion of the
cost reductions resulting from Project Outlook is being realized from a focused voluntary retirement incentive
program (VRIP) that was completed during the first quarter of 2006. In January 2006, approximately 60
employees elected to retire at the end of February under the terms of the VRIP. Restructuring charges for 2006
include $5.3 million for VRIP retirees, primarily special termination benefits, $0.7 million in severance costs
related to additional staffing reductions that were made at the end of January 2006, and $0.5 million related to the
relocation of various employee work groups within the new organizational structure.

During the year ended December 31, 2006, we recorded $0.5 million ($0.3 million after tax) in severance

costs related to our plan to discontinue manufacturing operations in Britain.

40

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

Note 3—Inventories

Finished products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Work in process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Raw materials and supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total LIFO inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Excess of FIFO costs over LIFO costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total FIFO inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

December 31

2006

2005

(In thousands)

$ 55,764
24,203
57,263

137,230
42,514

179,744

$ 49,073
24,096
46,562

119,731
41,604

161,335

Inventories stated on the LIFO basis represent 36% of the total inventories at both December 31, 2006 and

2005.

Reductions in certain inventory quantities during 2006 and 2005 resulted in liquidations of LIFO inventories

carried at lower costs prevailing in prior years. The effect of these liquidations on cost of sales and net income
was not significant in either year.

Note 4—Capital Stock

• Common stock, no par value—180,000,000 shares authorized.

•

•

Second cumulative preferred voting stock, $10 par value—1,000,000 shares authorized; none issued.
4 1⁄ 2% cumulative preferred nonvoting stock, $50 par value—100,000 shares authorized; 71,373 shares
issued and 52,841 shares ($1.8 million) held in treasury; no treasury share purchases in 2006, treasury
share purchases in 2005 and 2004 of 105 shares, $5, and 1,182 shares, $56, respectively (share purchase
dollars in thousands).

41

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

Common stock activity is summarized as follows:

Shares

Stock
Compensation
Trust

Shares
Issued

Dollars (In thousands)

Shares in
Treasury

Shares
Issued

Stock
Compensation
Trust

Balances January 1, 2004 . . . . . . . . 61,740,327
—
Restricted stock awards . . . . . . . . .
Stock options exercised . . . . . . . . .
—
Tax benefit related to stock

plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Treasury shares purchased . . . . . . .

—
—

Balances December 31, 2004 . . . . . 61,740,327
42,440
Restricted stock awards . . . . . . . . .
Restricted stock awards

(3,711,231)
45,098
519,911

(21,101,112) $31,187
918
2,197

—
—

$(19,385)
236
2,713

—
—

—

(151,607)

4,946
—

—
—

(3,146,222)
10,438

(21,252,719) 39,248
2,286

—

(16,436)
54

forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock options exercised . . . . . . . . .
Tax benefit related to stock

plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Treasury shares purchased . . . . . . .

—
298,624

—

134,659

—
—

—
—

(161)
—

—

(1,281,402)

—
3,992

5,361
—

—
715

—
—

Balances December 31, 2005 . . . . . 62,081,391
—
Restricted stock awards . . . . . . . . .
Restricted stock awards

(3,001,125)
47,738

(22,534,282) 50,887
1,674

—

(15,667)
249

forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock options exercised . . . . . . . . .
Stock option expense . . . . . . . . . . .
Tax benefit related to stock

plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Treasury shares purchased . . . . . . .

—
—
—

—
—

—
204,375
—

(2,346)
—
—

—
—

—

(780,335)

—
832
1,730

2,703
—

—
1,068
—

—
—

Treasury
Cost

$(135,483)

—
—

—
(6,066)

(141,549)

—

(6)

—

—
(58,007)

(199,562)

—

(94)
—
—

—
(29,893)

Balances December 31, 2006 . . . . . 62,081,391

(2,749,012)

(23,316,963) 57,826

(14,350)

(229,549)

The Mine Safety Appliances Company Stock Compensation Trust was established to fund certain benefit

plans, including employee and non-employee directors’ stock options and awards. Shares held by the Stock
Compensation Trust, and the corresponding cost of those shares, are reported as a reduction of common shares
issued. Differences between the cost of the shares held by the Stock Compensation Trust and the market value of
shares released for stock-related benefits are reflected in shares issued.

The Shareholder Rights Plan, under which each outstanding share of common stock was granted one-ninth

of a preferred share purchase right, expired on February 21, 2007. Under the terms of the Plan, the rights were
exercisable for a fraction of a share of preferred stock, only if a person or group acquired or commenced a tender
offer for 15% or more of our common stock.

42

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

Note 5—Segment Information

We are organized into three geographic operating segments: North America, Europe, and International. We

are engaged in the manufacture and sale of safety equipment, including respiratory protective equipment, head
protection, eye and face protection, hearing protection, safety clothing, industrial emergency care products,
mining safety equipment, thermal imaging cameras, and monitoring instruments. Reportable segment
information is presented in the following table:

North
America

Europe

International

(In thousands)

Reconciling
Items

Consolidated
Totals

$503,357
39,888
42,658
609,913
1,436
5,998

$219,241
82,936
8,851
249,073
458
88

$191,116
5,676
13,087
109,027
937
141

$
(128,500)
(678)
(69,393)
231
1

— $913,714

2006

Sales to external customers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intercompany sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Noncash items:

Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . .
Pension income (expense)
Equity in earnings of affiliates . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax provision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments in affiliates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2005

2004

Sales to external customers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intercompany sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Noncash items:

Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . .
Pension income (expense)
Equity in earnings of affiliates . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax provision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments in affiliates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sales to external customers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intercompany sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Noncash items:

Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . .
Pension income (expense)
Equity in earnings of affiliates . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax provision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments in affiliates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

—
63,918
898,620
3,062
6,228

22,147
(696)
168
28,722
631
22,734
120,651

907,912
—
81,783
725,357
2,460
5,484

24,345
6,104
(132)
42,013
645
21,664
116,209

852,509
—
71,047
734,110
2,714
3,845

25,496
7,188
56
42,821
575
27,330
123,716

14,200
4,697
(277)
17,844
221
11,734
83,540

5,456
(4,569)
—
4,908
—
6,791
24,358

566,501
39,083
64,149
492,964
1,067
5,295

180,493
70,099
6,321
200,611
301
74

5,286
(3,762)
—
7,138
—
5,924
20,464

167,300
57,453
3,771
221,447
187
61

5,212
(4,002)
—
4,937
—
6,440
23,505

17,138
10,542
(210)
30,578
344
12,764
85,236

557,109
29,654
56,594
469,555
1,613
3,622

18,682
11,687
—
33,910
366
16,238
90,121

43

2,491
(824)
109
5,111
410
4,209
12,753

160,918
4,831
11,659
87,513
526
115

1,921
(676)
78
4,663
301
2,976
10,509

128,100
3,883
10,571
80,574
387
162

1,602
(529)
56
3,689
209
4,652
10,090

—
—
—
859
—
—
—

—

(114,013)
(346)
(55,731)
566
—

—
—
—
(366)
—
—
—

—
(90,990)
111
(37,466)
527
—

—

32
—
285
—
—
—

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

Reconciling items consist primarily of intercompany eliminations and items reported at the corporate level.

Geographic information for sales to external customers, based on country of origin:

United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$500,398
99,955
313,361

(In thousands)
$560,107
73,903
273,902

$544,707
70,281
237,521

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

913,714

907,912

852,509

2006

2005

2004

Note 6—Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share is computed on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during

the period. Diluted earnings per share includes the effect of the weighted average stock options outstanding
during the period, using the treasury stock method. Antidilutive options are not considered in computing diluted
earnings per share.

2006

2005

2004

Net income
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preferred stock dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(In thousands,
except per share amounts)
$81,783
(42)

$63,918
(42)

$71,047
(44)

Income available to common shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . .

63,876

81,741

71,003

Basic earnings per common share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Diluted earnings per common share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Basic shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Diluted shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Antidilutive stock options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

1.76

1.73

$

$

2.24

2.19

$

$

1.91

1.86

36,366
562

36,928

376

36,560
741

37,301

195

37,111
1,019

38,130

—

44

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

Note 7—Income Taxes

Components of income before income taxes
U.S. income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-U.S. income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Currency translation gains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Eliminations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$53,488
42,527
2,880
(6,255)

$112,731
40,764
106
(29,805)

$ 84,896
28,229
647
96

Income before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

92,640

123,796

113,868

2006

2005

2004

(In thousands)

Provision for income taxes
Current

Federal
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

13,653
2,663
14,338

Total current provision.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

30,654

Deferred

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Federal
State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

391
(1,161)
(1,162)

Total deferred provision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(1,932)

23,259
6,352
10,108

39,719

461
219
1,614

2,294

24,016
4,566
7,133

35,715

3,403
1,025
2,678

7,106

Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

28,722

42,013

42,821

Reconciliation of the U.S. federal income tax rates to our effective tax rate

2006

2005

2004

U.S. federal income tax rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State income taxes—U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Taxes on non-U.S. income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Research and development credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Extra-territorial income exclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjustment of prior years income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Valuation allowances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . —
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

35.0% 35.0% 35.0%
3.4
1.3
(1.0)
(0.5)
(0.9)
(1.0)
(0.4)
(0.6)
(1.6)
(2.2)
—
(0.6)

3.3
(0.1)
(0.9)
(0.2)
1.0
(0.5)
—

(1.0)

Effective income tax rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

31.0% 33.9% 37.6%

45

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31

2006

2005

(In thousands)

Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities
Deferred tax assets

Postretirement benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventory reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vacation allowances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net operating losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Post employment benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign tax credit carryforwards (expiring between 2009 and 2016) . . .
Liability insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basis of capital assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangibles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warranties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 17,112
8,180
1,408
1,154
2,150
2,789
4,318
4,197
1,424
2,607
3,968

$ 6,684
6,424
1,272
3,803
1,950
1,736
3,522
4,383
1,138
2,593
4,178

Total deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

49,307

37,683

Deferred tax liabilities

Property, plant and equipment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(20,229)
(80,365)
(1,946)

(18,647)
(52,647)
(5,134)

Total deferred tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(102,540)

(76,428)

Net deferred taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(53,233)

(38,745)

Net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $2.9 million, all in non-U.S. tax jurisdictions, have no

expiration date.

No deferred U.S. income taxes have been provided on undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries,
which amounted to $137.2 million as of December 31, 2006. These earnings are considered to be reinvested for
an indefinite period of time. It is not practicable to determine the deferred tax liability on these undistributed
earnings.

The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 provided a limited opportunity through 2005 to repatriate the
undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries at a U.S. tax cost that could be lower than the normal tax cost on
such distributions. During 2005, we repatriated $23.2 million of dividends, $21.0 million of which qualified
under these provisions. The resulting impact of these dividends on our income tax expense was not material.

The determination of income tax expense takes into consideration amounts which may be needed to cover

exposures for open tax years. We have resolved all matters with the IRS related to our federal income tax returns
through 2002. We believe that we have made adequate provision for income taxes and interest which may
become payable or receivable for years not yet settled. We do not expect any materially adverse impact on
earnings to result from the resolution of matters related to open tax years.

Note 8—Stock Plans

The 1998 Management Share Incentive Plan provides for grants of stock options and restricted stock awards

to eligible key employees through March 2008. The 1990 Non-Employee Directors’ Stock Option Plan, as
amended April 29, 2004, provides for annual grants of stock options and restricted stock awards to eligible

46

directors. Stock options are granted at market value option prices and expire after ten years (limited instances of
option prices in excess of market value and expiration after five years). Stock options granted in 2006 are
exercisable beginning three years after the grant date. Stock options granted in 2005 and earlier years were fully
vested as of December 31, 2005. Restricted stock awards are granted without payment to the company and vest
three years after the grant date. As of December 31, 2006, there were 916,004 shares and 111,740 shares,
respectively, reserved for future grants under the management and directors’ plans. We issue Stock
Compensation Trust shares or new shares for stock option exercises and restricted stock awards.

On January 1, 2006, we adopted Statement of FAS No. 123R, Share-Based Payment, which requires that we

recognize compensation expense for stock-based compensation based on the grant date fair value. Except for
retirement-eligible employees, for whom there is no requisite service period, this expense is recognized ratably
over the requisite service periods following the date of grant. For retirement-eligible employees, this expense is
recognized at the grant date. We have elected the modified prospective application method for adoption and prior
periods financial statements have not been restated. Prior to January 1, 2006, we accounted for stock-based
compensation in accordance with the provisions of APB Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to
Employees, and related interpretations, using the intrinsic value method, which resulted in no compensation
expense for stock options.

Stock-based compensation expense was as follows:

Restricted stock awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock option grants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total compensation expense before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total compensation expense, net of income tax benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2006

2005

2004

(In thousands)
$1,356
—

$2,204
1,730

3,934
1,434

2,500

1,356
529

827

$895
—

895
349

546

We did not capitalize any stock-based compensation expense in 2006, 2005, or 2004.

Prior to January 1, 2006, we did not recognize stock-based compensation expense for stock options. If we
had elected to recognize compensation cost based on the fair value of the options at the grant date as prescribed
by FAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, net income and earnings per share for 2005 and
2004 would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts shown below.

2005

2004

(In thousands)

Net income as reported . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fair value of stock options granted, net of tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$81,783
(2,565)

$71,047
(1,781)

Pro forma net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

79,218

69,266

Basic earnings per share:

As reported . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pro forma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Diluted earnings per share:

As reported . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pro forma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

2.24
2.17

2.19
2.12

$

$

1.91
1.87

1.86
1.82

47

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

Stock option expense for 2006 and the pro forma effect as if FAS No. 123 had been applied for 2005 and

2004 are based on the fair value of stock option grants estimated on the grant dates using the Black-Scholes
option pricing model and the following weighted average assumptions for options granted in 2006 and 2005:

Fair value per option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Risk-free interest rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected dividend yield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected volatility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected life (years) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2006

2005

2004

$16.38

$16.58

$8.63

4.6%
1.4%
41%
5.7

4.3% 4.1%
2.0% 2.0%
34% 29%
9.9

9.9

The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury Constant Maturity rates as of the grant date
converted into an implied spot rate yield curve. Expected dividend yield is based on the most recent annualized
dividend divided by the one year average closing share price. Expected volatility is based on the ten year
historical volatility using daily stock prices. Expected life in years for 2006 is based on historical stock option
exercise data. Prior to 2006, expected life approximated contractual life.

A summary of option activity under the two plans follows:

Outstanding at January 1, 2004 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Outstanding December 31, 2004 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Outstanding December 31, 2005 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Shares

2,015,550
297,065
(519,911)

1,792,704
194,786
(433,283)

1,554,207
181,527
(204,375)

Outstanding December 31, 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,531,359

Weighted
Average
Exercise Price

Exercisable at
Year-end

$ 9.88
25.21
9.45

12.55
45.68
10.86

17.17
40.20
9.29

20.95

1,495,639

1,554,207

1,349,832

48

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

For various exercise price ranges, characteristics of outstanding and exercisable stock options at

December 31, 2006 were as follows:

Range of Exercise Prices

$ 7.07 - $ 9.03
$10.65 - $13.57
$25.07 - $28.06
$40.08 - $50.25

$ 7.07 - $50.25

Range of Exercise Prices

$ 7.07 - $ 9.03
$10.65 - $13.57
$25.07 - $28.06
$44.36 - $50.25

$ 7.07 - $50.25

Stock Options Outstanding

Weighted-Average

Exercise Price

Remaining Life

$ 7.83
11.29
25.17
43.04

20.95

4.1 years
5.7
7.2
8.5

6.4

Stock Options Exercisable

Weighted-Average

Exercise Price

Remaining Life

$ 7.83
11.29
25.17
45.68

18.36

4.1 years
5.7
7.2
7.9

6.0

Shares

264,963
619,287
270,796
376,313

1,531,359

Shares

264,963
619,287
270,796
194,786

1,349,832

The aggregate intrinsic values of stock options outstanding and stock options exercisable at December 31,

2006 were $24.5 million and $25.7 million, respectively.

A summary of restricted stock award activity follows:

Unvested at January 1, 2004 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Unvested at December 31, 2004 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Unvested at December 31, 2005 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Shares

137,559
45,098
(3,474)

179,183
52,878
(62,009)
(161)

169,891
47,738
(76,813)
(2,346)

Unvested at December 31, 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

138,470

Weighted
Average
Grant
Date Fair
Value

$12.16
25.59
11.47

15.57
44.27
13.83
39.16

25.10
40.29
12.18
40.08

37.26

During the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004, the total intrinsic value of stock options
exercised (i.e. the difference between the market price at exercise and the option price paid to exercise the
option) was $6.3 million, $14.5 million, and $15.9 million, respectively. The fair values of restricted stock

49

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

awards vested during the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004 were $2.9 million, $2.1 million, and
$1.6 million, respectively.

As of December 31, 2006, there was $3.1 million of total future unvested stock-based compensation

expense, and the weighted average period over which this expense is expected to be recognized was
approximately 1.7 years.

Note 9—Accounts Receivable Securitization

In August 2004, we terminated our securitization arrangement with a financial institution under which Mine
Safety Funding Corporation, a consolidated wholly-owned bankruptcy remote subsidiary of the company, could
sell up to $30.0 million of eligible accounts receivable to a multi-seller asset-backed commercial paper issuer.
We terminated this arrangement because we no longer required the source of funding that the securitization
provided.

Note 10—Long-Term Debt

December 31

2006

2005

(In thousands)

U.S.

Industrial development debt issues payable through 2022, 5.46% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Series B Senior Notes payable through 2006, 7.69% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Senior Notes payable through 2012, 8.39% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Senior Notes payable through 2022, 5.41% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Note payable through 2011, net of unamortized discount of $1,306 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

6,750
—
39,089
60,000
8,694
—

$10,750
4,000
39,070
—
—
50

International

Various notes payable through 2008, 5.80% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

38

98

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total
Amounts due in one year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

114,571
2,030

53,968
8,134

Long-term debt

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

112,541

45,834

Approximate maturities of these obligations over the next five years are $2.0 million in 2007, $10.0 million

in 2008, $10.8 million in 2009, $12.0 million in 2010, $8.7 million in 2011, and $71.1 million thereafter. Some
debt agreements require us to maintain certain financial ratios and minimum net worth and contain restrictions on
the total amount of debt. We were in compliance with our debt covenants as of December 31, 2006.

Note 11—Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits

We maintain various defined benefit and defined contribution plans covering the majority of our employees.
The principal U.S. plan is funded in compliance with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). It
is our general policy to fund current costs for the international plans except in Germany and Mexico, where it is
common practice and permissible under tax laws to accrue book reserves.

We provide health care benefits and limited life insurance for certain retired employees who are covered by

our principal U.S. defined benefit pension plan until they become Medicare-eligible.

50

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

We adopted FAS No. 158, Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement

Plans, effective December 31, 2006. FAS No. 158 requires an employer to recognize the funded status of each of
its defined pension and postretirement benefit plans as a net asset or liability in its statement of financial position
with an offsetting amount in accumulated other comprehensive income, and to recognize changes in that funded
status in the year in which changes occur through comprehensive income. Upon the adoption of FAS No. 158,
additional minimum pension liabilities and related intangible assets are no longer recognized. The provisions of
FAS No. 158 are to be applied on a prospective basis; therefore, prior periods presented are not restated. The
adoption of FAS No. 158 resulted in the following impacts at December 31, 2006: an increase of $67.5 million in
prepaid pension costs, an increase of $23.4 million in accrued pension and other postretirement benefit liabilities,
and an increase of $43.5 million ($26.6 million after-tax) in accumulated other comprehensive income.
Additionally, FAS No. 158 requires that we measure the funded status of each of our plans as of year-end
beginning December 31, 2008.

51

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

We use a January 1 measurement date for our plans. Information pertaining to defined benefit pension plans

and other postretirement benefits plans is provided in the following table.

Pension Benefits

Other Benefits

2006

2005

2006

2005

(In thousands)

Change in Benefit Obligations

Benefit obligations at January 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service cost
Interest cost
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employee contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Plan amendments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Actuarial losses (gain) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Curtailments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Settlements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Termination benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Currency translation effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefit obligations at December 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$286,094
9,597
16,066
254
—
64
(18,189)
(22)
(393)
4,843
8,280
306,594

$270,045
7,843
14,985
554
44
14,515
(13,716)
—
—
—
(8,176)
286,094

$ 28,518
614
1,399
—
(1,310)
(1,832)
(2,483)
—
—
—
—
24,906

$ 26,387
543
1,609
—
—
1,949
(1,970)
—
—
—
—
28,518

Change in Plan Assets

Fair value of plan assets at January 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Actual return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employer contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employee contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Section 420 transfer to retiree medical plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reimbursement of German benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Settlements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Currency translation effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fair value of plan assets at December 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Funded Status

Funded status at December 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unrecognized transition losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unrecognized prior service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unrecognized net actuarial (gains) losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net amount recognized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Amounts Recognized in the Balance Sheet

Before the Adoption of FAS No. 158
Prepaid pension cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued benefit liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangible asset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated other comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net amount recognized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
After the Adoption of FAS No. 158
Noncurrent assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Noncurrent liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net amount recognized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other

Comprehensive Income

395,291
54,574
2,454
254
(15,619)
(1,900)
(2,570)
(520)
1,627
433,591

126,997
264
690
(49,160)
78,791

143,546
(67,705)
550
2,400
78,791

211,018
(3,724)
(80,297)
126,997

Net actuarial loss (gain) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prior service cost (credit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unrecognized net initial obligation (asset) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total (before tax effects) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(49,160)
690
264
(48,206)

383,195
25,162
4,029
554
(13,716)
(1,500)
(1,868)
—
(565)
395,291

109,197
300
888
(26,527)
83,858

140,575
(60,447)
334
3,396
83,858

—
—
—
—

—
—
—
—

—
—
583
—
(2,483)
1,900
—
—
—
—

—
—
470
—
(1,970)
1,500
—
—
—
—

(24,906)
—
(2,527)
9,650
(17,783)

(28,518)
—
(1,444)
12,401
(17,561)

—
(17,783)
—
—
(17,783)

—
(1,637)
(23,269)
(24,906)

9,650
(2,527)
—
7,123

—
(17,561)
—
—
(17,561)

—
—
—
—

—
—
—
—

—

Accumulated Benefit Obligations for all Defined

Benefit Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

254,968

233,337

—

52

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

Before
Application of
FAS No. 158 (a)

FAS No. 158
Adjustments

After
Application of
FAS No. 158

Change due to the adoption of FAS No. 158

Prepaid pension costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangible asset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pension liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other benefits liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$143,546
550
(67,705)
(17,783)

Accumulated other comprehensive income before taxes . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred taxes, net

Accumulated other comprehensive income after taxes . . . . . . . .

2,400
(916)

1,484

$ 67,472
(550)
(16,316)
(7,123)

(43,483)
16,932

(26,551)

$211,018

—
(84,021)
(24,906)

(41,083)
16,016

(25,067)

(a)

Includes additional minimum pension liability adjustment under previous guidance of $1,287, which
credited accumulated other comprehensive income by $1,027 after-tax.

Pension Benefits

Other Benefits

2006

2005

2004

2006

2005

2004

(In thousands)

Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
(Credit)

Service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization of transition amounts . . . . . . . .
Amortization of prior service cost . . . . . . . . . .
Recognized net actuarial losses (gains) . . . . . .
Settlement loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Termination benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 9,597
16,066
(31,287)
44
198
1,089
146
4,843

$ 614
$ 7,843 $ 7,383
14,661
1,399
(29,123) —
—
(227)
820
—
—

14,985
(30,001)
43
270
496
260
—

28
299
(661)
225
—

$ 543
1,609
—
—
(227)
984
—
—

$ 513
1,505
—
—
(228)
828
—
—

Net periodic benefit (credit) cost . . . . . . . . . . .

696

(6,104)

(7,188)

2,606

2,909

2,618

Pension Benefits

Other Benefits

2006

2005

2006

2005

Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations

Discount rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rate of compensation increase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5.7% 5.5% 6.0% 5.8%
4.4% 3.4% —

—

Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost

Discount rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rate of compensation increases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5.5% 5.7% 5.8% 6.0%
8.4% 8.4% —
4.4% 3.4% —

—
—

53

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

The expected return on assets for the 2006 net periodic pension cost was determined by multiplying the
expected returns of each asset class (based on historical returns) by the expected percentage of the total portfolio
invested in that asset class. A total return was determined by summing the expected returns over all asset classes.

Plan Assets at
December 31

2006

2005

Asset Category

Equity securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Debt securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Real estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash/other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

78.8% 76.8%
17.9% 19.5%
0.2%
0.3%
3.5%
3.0%

Total

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

100.0% 100.0%

Investment policies are determined by the Plan’s Investment Committee and set forth in the Plan’s
Investment Policy. Asset managers are granted discretion for determining sector mix, selecting securities and
timing transactions, subject to the guidelines of the Investment Policy. An aggressive, flexible management of
the portfolio is permitted. No target asset allocations are set forth in the Investment Policy.

We expect to make net contributions of $1.7 million to our pension plans in 2007.

For measurement purposes, a 7.5% increase in the costs of covered health care benefits was assumed for the

year 2006, decreasing by 0.5% for each successive year to 4.0% in 2013 and thereafter. A one-percentage-point
change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have increased or decreased the other postretirement benefit
obligations and current year plan expense by approximately $1.4 million and $0.2 million, respectively.

Expense for defined contribution pension plans was $4.0 million in 2006, $3.9 million in 2005, and

$3.8 million in 2004.

On December 31, 2003, the U.S. defined benefit pension plan owned 2,533,500 shares (market value
$67.1 million) of our common stock. During 2004, the pension plan sold all shares of our common stock. During
2004 and 2003, the pension plan received dividends of approximately $0.2 million and $4.5 million, respectively,
on those shares.

The estimated pension benefits to be paid under our defined benefit pension plans during the next five years

are $14.3 million in 2007, $15.3 million in 2008, $15.6 million in 2009, $16.6 million in 2010, $17.2 million in
2011, and are expected to aggregate $104.9 million for the five years thereafter. The estimated other
postretirement benefits to be paid during the next five years are $1.6 million in 2007, $1.6 million in 2008,
$1.7 million in 2009, $1.9 million in 2010, $2.0 million in 2011, and are expected to aggregate $10.7 million for
the five years thereafter.

54

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

Note 12—Other Income

Interest
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dispositions of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net

2006

2005

2004

$3,062
—
2,865
(543)

(In thousands)
$2,460
—
1,604
(6)

$2,714
610
1,008
672

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5,384

4,058

5,004

Note 13—Leases

We lease office space, manufacturing and warehouse facilities, automobiles, and other equipment under
operating lease arrangements. Rent expense was $11.2 million in 2006, $10.9 million in 2005, and $9.9 million in
2004. Minimum rent commitments under noncancelable leases are $7.9 million in 2007, $5.8 million in 2008,
$4.7 million in 2009, $4.2 million in 2010, $2.8 million in 2011, and $1.6 million thereafter.

Note 14—Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Changes in goodwill and intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization, during the year ended

December 31, 2006 were as follows:

Goodwill

Intangibles

(In thousands)

Net balances at January 1, 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill acquired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangibles acquired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Currency translation and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$55,654
22,356
—
—
1,350

$ 9,353
—
9,445
(1,795)
93

Net balances at December 31, 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

79,360

17,096

At December 31, 2006, goodwill of approximately $59.4 million, $16.9 million, and $3.1 million related to
the North American, European, and International operating segments, respectively. Approximately $18.6 million
and $3.0 million of the goodwill acquired during 2006 related to the Paraclete Armor and Equipment, Inc. and
Select Personal Protective Equipment acquisitions. The remainder related primarily to additional consideration
paid on previous acquisitions.

Intangible assets include patents, license agreements, copyrights, and trademarks. These items are included

in other noncurrent assets. At December 31, 2006, intangible assets totaled $17.1 million, net of accumulated
amortization of $6.2 million. Intangible asset amortization expense over the next five years is expected to be
approximately $3.5 million in 2007, $3.5 million in 2008, $2.5 million in 2009, $1.9 million in 2010, and
$1.7 million in 2011.

Note 15—Short-Term Debt

Short-term bank lines of credit amounted to $80.6 million, of which $80.3 million was unused at

December 31, 2006. Generally, these short-term lines of credit are renewable annually. There are no significant
commitment fees or compensating balance requirements. Short-term borrowings with banks, which exclude the

55

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

current portion of long-term debt, were $0.3 million and $0.7 million at December 31, 2006 and 2005,
respectively. The average month-end balance of total short-term borrowings during 2006 was $19.7 million,
while the maximum month-end balance of $62.6 million occurred at October 31, 2006. The weighted average
interest rates on short-term borrowings at December 31, 2006 and 2005 were 5% and 6%, respectively.

Note 16—Derivative Financial Instruments

In April 2004, we entered into an eight year interest rate swap agreement. Under the terms of the agreement,
we receive a fixed interest rate of 8.39% and pay a floating interest rate based on LIBOR. The notional amount of
the swap is initially $20.0 million and declines $4.0 million per year beginning in 2008. The interest rate swap
has been designated as a fair value hedge of a portion of our fixed rate 8.39% Senior Notes.

In order to account for these derivatives as hedges, the interest rate swap must be highly effective at
offsetting changes in the fair value of the hedged debt. We have assumed that there is no ineffectiveness in the
hedge, since all of the critical terms of the hedge match the underlying terms of the hedged debt.

The fair value of the interest rate swap at December 31, 2006, has been recorded as a liability of

$0.9 million that is included in other noncurrent liabilities, with an offsetting reduction in the carrying value of
the long-term debt.

As a result of entering into the interest rate swap, we have increased our exposure to interest rate

fluctuations. Differences between the fixed rate amounts received and the variable rate amount paid are
recognized in interest expense on an ongoing basis. This rate difference resulted in an increase in interest expense
of $0.3 million during 2006 and reductions in interest expenses of $0.1 million during 2005 and $0.3 million
during 2004.

In March 2004, we terminated an interest rate swap agreement which we had entered into in December
2003. The termination of this agreement resulted in a realized gain of approximately $0.7 million, which was
reported as a reduction of interest expense during 2004.

Note 17—Acquisitions

In September 2006, we acquired Paraclete Armor and Equipment, Inc. (Paraclete) of St. Pauls, North
Carolina. Paraclete is a rapidly growing innovator and developer of advanced ballistic body armor used by
military personnel, including Special Forces units of the U.S. military. The purchase price of $30.3 million
included a note payable and cash paid to the previous owners and other direct external costs associated with the
acquisition. The note is non-interest bearing and is payable in five annual installments of $2.0 million beginning
September 1, 2007. We recorded the note at a fair value of $8.5 million at the time of issuance. The note discount
of $1.5 million is being recognized as interest expense over its term. Goodwill related to the Paraclete
acquisition, which is included in the North American segment, is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

56

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

The following table summarizes the preliminary estimated fair value of the Paraclete assets acquired and

liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition:

Current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangibles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total assets acquired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

September
2006

(In thousands)
$ 2,640
2,414
6,680
18,554
30,288

In January 2006, we took steps to ensure our compliance with South African Black Economic

Empowerment (BEE) requirements by forming a new South African holding company in which Mineworkers
Investment Company (MIC) of Johannesburg, South Africa holds a 25.1% ownership interest. Compliance with
BEE, a South African government program similar to Affirmative Action in the United States, is key to achieving
meaningful growth in South Africa, particularly in the mining industry. At the same time, we acquired Select
Personal Protective Equipment (Select PPE) of South Africa, an established supplier of multi-brand safety
equipment and solutions to the South African mining industry. The purchase price of $7.9 million in cash
included amounts paid to the previous owners and other direct costs associated with the acquisition. Goodwill
related to Select PPE, which is included in the International segment, is not expected to be deductible for tax
purposes. Our existing South African company, MSA Africa, and Select PPE are operating independently under
the newly-established South African holding company. We believe that our new South African operating
structure significantly improves our market presence and expertise in serving the mining industry and provides
significant growth opportunities in the region.

The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of the Select PPE assets acquired and liabilities

assumed at the date of acquisition:

Current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangibles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill

Total assets acquired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net assets acquired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

January
2006

(In thousands)
$ 7,751
420
1,645
2,999

12,815
4,920

7,895

In September 2005, we acquired Microsensor Systems, Inc. of Bowling Green, Kentucky. Microsensor
Systems is a world leader in surface acoustic wave based chemical sensing technology used to detect chemical
warfare agents. The initial purchase price of $12.8 million in cash included amounts paid to the previous owners
and other direct external costs associated with the acquisition. Goodwill related to the Microsensor Systems
acquisition, which is included in the North American segment, is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The
acquisition agreement provides for additional consideration of up to $2.3 million to be paid to the former owners
based on sales of certain Microsensor Systems products during the five year period from September 1, 2005
through August 31, 2010. Additional consideration will be charged to goodwill. Through December 31, 2006, no
additional consideration has been paid under the terms of Microsensor Systems acquisition agreement.

57

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

In June 2004, we acquired Sordin AB of Varnamo, Sweden, a leading manufacturer of passive and

electronic hearing protection designed for the industrial, law enforcement and military markets. The $4.3 million
initial purchase price was allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on estimated fair values and
included $2.9 million of goodwill, which is included in the European segment. The acquisition agreement
provided for additional consideration of up to $5.4 million to be paid to the former owners based on Sordin’s
earnings performance during the five year period from July 1, 2004 through June 30, 2009. In October 2005, the
acquisition agreement was amended to satisfy our additional consideration obligation to 60% of the former
shareholders with a lump sum payment of $2.2 million, which was charged to goodwill. The additional
consideration due to the remaining 40% of the former shareholders, who comprise the current Sordin
management team, is being recognized as compensation expense over the five year earn out period, as specified
in the acquisition agreement.

The operating results of all acquisitions have been included in our consolidated financial statements from

their respective acquisition dates. Pro forma consolidated results, as if the acquisitions had occurred at the
beginning of 2004, would not be materially different from the results reported.

Note 18—Contingencies

Various lawsuits and claims arising in the normal course of business are pending against us. These lawsuits

are primarily product liability claims. We are presently named as a defendant in approximately 2,500 lawsuits
primarily involving respiratory protection products allegedly manufactured and sold by us. Collectively, these
lawsuits represent a total of approximately 16,750 plaintiffs. Approximately 90% of these lawsuits involve
plaintiffs alleging they suffer from silicosis, with the remainder alleging they suffer from other or combined
injuries, including asbestosis. These lawsuits typically allege that these conditions resulted in part from
respirators that were negligently designed or manufactured by us. Consistent with the experience of other
companies involved in silica and asbestos-related litigation, in recent years there has been an increase in the
number of asserted claims that could potentially involve us. We cannot determine our potential maximum
liability for such claims, in part because the defendants in these lawsuits are often numerous, and the claims
generally do not specify the amount of damages sought.

With some limited exceptions, we maintain insurance against product liability claims. We also maintain a
reserve for uninsured product liability based on expected settlement charges for pending claims and an estimate
of unreported claims derived from experience, sales volumes, and other relevant information. We evaluate our
exposures on an ongoing basis and make adjustments to the reserve as appropriate. Based on information
currently available, we believe that the disposition of matters that are pending will not have a materially adverse
effect on our financial condition.

In the normal course of business, we make payments to settle product liability claims and related legal fees
that are covered by insurance. We record receivables for the portion of these payments that we expect to recover
from insurance carriers. The net balance of receivables from insurance carriers was $18.4 million and $5.0
million at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. We evaluate the collectibility of these receivables on an
ongoing basis and make adjustments as appropriate.

Note 19—Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In September 2006, the FASB issued FAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. FAS No. 157 defines fair
value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and expands
disclosures about fair value measurements. The provisions of this standard apply to other accounting

58

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements. FAS No. 157 becomes effective on January 1,
2008. Upon adoption, the provisions of FAS No. 157 are to be applied prospectively with limited exceptions. We
do not expect that the adoption of this statement will have a material effect on our consolidated results of
operations or financial condition.

In June 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes

(an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109). This interpretation was issued to clarify the accounting for
uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the financial statements by prescribing a recognition threshold and
measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or
expected to be taken in a tax return. This interpretation is effective beginning January 1, 2007, with the
cumulative effect of the change in accounting principle recorded as an adjustment to opening retained earnings.
We are currently evaluating our tax positions and do not anticipate that this interpretation should have a
significant effect on our results.

Note 20—Subsequent Events

On January 30, 2007, we announced Project Magellan, a multi-year strategic plan to improve the efficiency

of our North American manufacturing operations by more effectively using available factory space. Project
Magellan is expected to result in the relocation of certain manufacturing activities and the closure of certain
facilities. We expect that Project Magellan will reduce operating expenses by as much as $10 million a year once
completed.

In the first stage of Project Magellan, we expect to move fire helmet manufacturing from our Clifton,

N.J. plant to our Jacksonville, N.C. plant. The Clifton plant, which employs about 70 associates, will then be
closed. Many Clifton associates will be offered an opportunity to relocate to Jacksonville or another MSA
location. Costs associated with this closure are not expected to be significant.

In addition, we will move our manufacturing operations in Mexico from Mexico City and Torreon to a new

factory in Queretaro, a city approximately 130 miles northwest of Mexico City. The plant consolidation in
Mexico is expected to begin in the second half of 2007 and be completed in 2008. We currently employ about
100 associates at our Mexico City and Torreon facilities. Many MSA Mexico manufacturing personnel will be
provided with an opportunity to relocate to the new Queretaro plant.

Finally, we expect to vacate our plant in Evans City, Pa. by August 2009, when our lease on the property
expires. Beginning in late 2007 and continuing into 2008, we expect to transfer certain production activities from
our Evans City plant to other MSA plants in the United States. We intend to maintain employment for as many
affected associates as possible by offering opportunities at other MSA locations. The Evans City facility
currently employs approximately 125 associates.

59

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

Note 21—Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)

2006

Quarters

Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$228,350
92,574
15,738

(In thousands, except earnings per share)
$256,939
$209,802
$218,623
87,291
78,150
87,289
19,498
12,601
16,081

$913,714
345,304
63,918

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

Year

Basic earnings per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Diluted earnings per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.43

.42

.44

.43

.54

.53

1.76

1.73

.35

.34

2005

Quarters

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

Year

(In thousands, except earnings per share)

Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $228,048 $220,124 $217,879 $241,861 $907,912
348,991
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
81,783
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

91,774
21,353

85,800
19,201

91,808
24,177

79,609
17,052

Basic earnings per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Diluted earnings per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.58

.57

.53

.52

.47

.46

.66

.65

2.24

2.19

Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

(a) Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures. Based on their evaluation as of the end of the period

covered by this Form 10-K, the Company’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have
concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”)) are effective to ensure that information
required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded,
processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Securities and Exchange Commission
rules and forms.

(b) Changes in internal control. There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial

reporting that occurred during the Company’s most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are
reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

See Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—“Management’s Report on Internal Control

Over Financial Reporting” and “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.”

Item 9B. Other Information

None.

60

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

PART III

Item 11. Executive Compensation

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder

Matters

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

Incorporated by reference herein pursuant to Rule 12b—23 are (1) “Election of Directors,” (2) “Executive

Compensation,” (3) “Other Information Concerning the Board of Directors,” (4) “Stock Ownership,” and
(5) “Selection of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm,” appearing in the Proxy Statement filed
pursuant to Regulation 14A in connection with the registrant’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on
May 10, 2007. The information appearing in such Proxy Statement under the caption “Audit Committee Report”
and the other information appearing in such Proxy Statement and not specifically incorporated by reference
herein is not incorporated herein. The Company has adopted a Code of Ethics applicable to its principal
executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer and other Company officials. The
text of the Code of Ethics is available on the Company’s Internet site at www.MSANet.com. Any amendment to,
or waiver of, a required provision of the Code of Ethics that applies to the Company’s principal executive,
financial or accounting officer will also be posted on the Company’s Internet site at that address.

The following table sets forth information as of December 31, 2006 concerning common stock issuable

under the Company’s equity compensation plans.

Plan Category

Number of securities
to be issued upon
exercise of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
(a)

Weighted average
exercise price of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
(b)

Number of securities
remaining available
for future issuance
under equity
compensation plans
(excluding securities
reflected in column (a))
(c)

Equity compensation plans approved by security

holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,531,359

Equity compensation plans not approved by

security holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

None
1,531,359

$20.95

—
$20.95

1,027,744*

None
1,027,744

* Includes 916,004 shares available for issuance under the Company’s 1998 Management Share Incentive Plan
(MSIP) and 111,740 shares available for issuance under the Company’s 1990 Non-Employee Directors’ Stock
Option Plan (DSOP). In addition to stock options, the DSOP authorizes the issuance of restricted stock awards,
and the MSIP authorizes the issuance of stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, performance awards and
other stock and stock-based awards.

61

PART IV

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

(a) 1. Financial Statements and Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (see Part II,

Item 8 of this Form 10-K).

The following information is filed as part of this Form 10-K.

Management’s Report on Responsibility for Financial Reporting and Management’s Report on

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statement of Income—three years ended December 31, 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Balance Sheet—December 31, 2006 and 2005 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows—three years ended December 31, 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Retained Earnings and Other Comprehensive Income—three
years ended December 31, 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Page

32

33

35

36

37

38

39

(a) 2. The following additional financial information for the three years ended December 31, 2006 is filed

with the report and should be read in conjunction with the above financial statements:

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Financial Statement Schedule

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable, not material or the required information is

shown in the consolidated financial statements and consolidated notes to the financial statements listed above.

(a) 3. Exhibits

(3)(i)

Restated Articles of Incorporation as amended to January 16, 2004, filed as Exhibit 3(i) to
Form 10-K on March 15, 2004, is incorporated herein by reference.

(3)(ii) By-laws of the registrant, as amended on October 26, 2004, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to Form 8-K on

October 27, 2004, is incorporated herein by reference.

(10)(a)* 1998 Management Share Incentive Plan, filed as Exhibit 10(b) to Form 10-K on March 28, 2003, is

incorporated herein by reference.

(10)(b)* Retirement Plan for Directors, as amended effective April 1, 2001, filed as Exhibit 10(a) to

Form 10-Q on May 10, 2006, is incorporated herein by reference.

(10)(c)* Supplemental Pension Plan as of May 5, 1998, filed as Exhibit 10(d) to Form 10-Q on August 12,

2003, is incorporated herein by reference.

(10)(d)* 1990 Non-Employee Directors’ Stock Option Plan as amended effective April 29, 2004, filed as
Exhibit 10(d) to Form 10-K on March 14, 2005, is incorporated herein by reference.

(10)(e)* Executive Insurance Program as Amended and Restated as of January 1, 2001, filed as Exhibit 10(b)

to Form 10-Q on May 10, 2006, is incorporated herein by reference.

(10)(f)* Annual Incentive Bonus Plan as of May 5, 1998, filed as Exhibit 10(g) to Form 10-Q on August 12,

2003, is incorporated herein by reference.

62

(10)(g)* Form of Severance Agreement as of May 20, 1998 between the registrant and John T. Ryan III, filed

as Exhibit 10(h) to Form 10-Q on August 12, 2003, is incorporated herein by reference.

(10)(h)* Form of Severance Agreement between the registrant and the other executive officers filed as
Exhibit 10(i) to Form 10-Q on August 12, 2003, is incorporated herein by reference.

(10)(i)* First Amendment to the 1998 Management Share Incentive Plan as of March 10, 1999, filed as
Exhibit 10(i) to Form 10-Q on August 6, 2004, is incorporated herein by reference.

(10)(j)

Trust Agreement as of June 1, 1996 between the registrant and PNC Bank, N.A. re the Mine Safety
Appliances Company Stock Compensation Trust filed as Exhibit 10(k) to Form 10-K on March 28,
2003, is incorporated herein by reference.

(10)(k)* MSA Supplemental Savings Plan, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2003, filed as
Exhibit 10(l) to Form 10-K on March 28, 2003, is incorporated herein by reference.

(10)(l)* CEO Annual Incentive Award Plan filed as Appendix A to the registrant’s definitive proxy statement

(21)

(23)

dated March 29, 2005, is incorporated herein by reference.

Affiliates of the registrant is filed herewith.

Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm is filed
herewith.

(31)(1) Certification of J. T. Ryan III pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) is filed herewith.

(31)(2) Certification of D. L. Zeitler pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) is filed herewith.

(32)

Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C.(S)1350 is
filed herewith.

* The exhibits marked by an asterisk are management contracts or compensatory plans or arrangements.

The registrant agrees to furnish to the Commission upon request copies of all instruments with respect to
long-term debt referred to in Note 10 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements filed as part of Item 8 of
this annual report which have not been previously filed or are not filed herewith.

63

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant

has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY

February 28, 2007

(Date)

By

/s/

JOHN T. RYAN III

John T. Ryan III
Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by

the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature

Title

Date

/s/

JOHN T. RYAN III
John T. Ryan III

Director; Chairman of the Board and

February 28, 2007

Chief Executive Officer

/s/ DENNIS L. ZEITLER

Dennis L. Zeitler

Vice President—Finance; Principal
Financial and Accounting Officer

February 28, 2007

Robert A. Bruggeworth

Director

/s/ CALVIN A. CAMPBELL, JR.

Director

February 28, 2007

Calvin A. Campbell, Jr.

/s/

JAMES A. CEDERNA
James A. Cederna

Director

February 28, 2007

/s/ THOMAS B. HOTOPP

Director

February 28, 2007

Thomas B. Hotopp

/s/ DIANE M. PEARSE

Director

February 28, 2007

Diane M. Pearse

L. Edward Shaw, Jr.

/s/

JOHN C. UNKOVIC
John C. Unkovic

Director

Director

February 28, 2007

/s/ THOMAS H. WITMER

Director

February 28, 2007

Thomas H. Witmer

64

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on
Financial Statement Schedule

To the Board of Directors
of Mine Safety Appliances Company:

Our audits of the consolidated financial statements, of management’s assessment of the effectiveness of

internal control over financial reporting and of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting
referred to in our report dated February 28, 2007 appearing in the 2006 Annual Report to Shareholders of Mine
Safety Appliances Company (which report, consolidated financial statements and assessment are included in this
Annual Report on Form 10-K) also included an audit of the financial statement schedule listed in Item 15(a)(2) of
this Form 10-K. In our opinion, this financial statement schedule presents fairly, in all material respects, the
information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements.

/s/ PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
February 28, 2007

F-1

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY AND AFFILIATES
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
THREE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2006
(IN THOUSANDS)

SCHEDULE II

Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Balance at beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additions—

2006

2005

2004

$6,041

$7,548

$6,418

Charged to costs and expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,063

474

1,703

Deductions—

Deductions from reserves (1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,530

5,574

1,981

6,041

573

7,548

(1) Bad debts written off, net of recoveries.

F-2

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY  

The registrant’s present affiliates include the following:  

Name 
Compañia MSA de Argentina S.A. 
MSA (Aust.) Pty. Limited 
MSA-Auer Sicherheitstechnik Vertriebs GmbH 
MSA Belgium NV 
MSA do Brasil Ltda. 
MSA Canada 
MSA de Chile Ltda. 

Wuxi-MSA Safety Equipment Co. Ltd.
MSA International, Inc. 
Microsensor Systems, Inc. 
MSA Gallet 
MSA Auer 
MSA Europe 

MSA-Auer Hungaria Safety Technology
MSA Italiana S.p.A. 
MSA Japan Ltd. 
MSA Safety Malaysia Snd Bhd 
MSA de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. 
MSA Nederland, B.V. 
MSA del Peru S.A.C. 
MSA-Auer Polska Sp. z o.o. 
MSA (Britain) Limited 
MSA S.E. Asia Pte. Ltd. 
MSA Africa (Pty.) Ltd. 
MSA Española S.A. 
MSA Nordic 
Sordin AB 
Aritron Instrument A.G. 
MSA Zimbabwe (Pvt.) Limited 

EXHIBIT 21 

State or Other
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation

   Argentina

   Australia

   Austria

   Belgium

   Brazil

   Canada

   Chile

   China

   Delaware

   Kentucky

   France

   Germany

   Germany

   Hungary

   Italy

   Japan

   Malaysia

   Mexico

   Netherlands

   Peru

   Poland

   Scotland

   Singapore

   South Africa

   Spain

   Sweden

   Sweden

   Switzerland

   Zimbabwe

The above-mentioned affiliated companies are included in the consolidated financial statements of the registrant filed as part of 
this annual report. The names of certain other affiliates, which considered in the aggregate as a single affiliate would not constitute a 
significant affiliate, have been omitted. 

  
  
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM  

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form S-8 (No. 33-43696, No. 333-51983, and 
No. 333-121196) of Mine Safety Appliances Company of our reports dated February 28, 2007 relating to the financial statements, 
financial statement schedule, management’s assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting and the 
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, which appear in this Form 10-K.  

Exhibit 23 

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 
February 28, 2007 

  
EXHIBIT 31.1 

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a)  

I, John T. Ryan III, certify that:  
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Mine Safety Appliances Company;  

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact 
necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with 
respect to the period covered by this report;  

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all 
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in 
this report;  

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures 
(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a–15(e) and 15d–15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange 
Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:  

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under 
our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made 
known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;  
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be 
designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the 
preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;  
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions 
about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on 
such evaluation; and  
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the 
registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially 
affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and  

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial 
reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the 
equivalent functions):  

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting 
which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial 
information; and  
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the 
registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.  

February 28, 2007  

/s/ John T. Ryan III 
John T. Ryan III
Chief Executive Officer

  
EXHIBIT 31.2 

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a)  

I, Dennis L. Zeitler, certify that:  
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Mine Safety Appliances Company;  

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact 
necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with 
respect to the period covered by this report;  

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all 
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in 
this report;  

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures 
(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a–15(e) and 15d–15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange 
Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:  

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under 
our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made 
known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;  
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be 
designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the 
preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;  
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions 
about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on 
such evaluation; and  
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the 
registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially 
affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and  

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial 
reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the 
equivalent functions):  

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting 
which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial 
information; and  
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the 
registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.  

February 28, 2007 

/s/ Dennis L. Zeitler 
Dennis L. Zeitler
Chief Financial Officer

  
CERTIFICATION  

EXHIBIT 32 

Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. (S) 1350, the undersigned officers of Mine Safety Appliances Company (the “Company”), hereby certify, 

to the best of their knowledge, that the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 (the 
“Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13 (a) or 15 (d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and 
that the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of 
the Company.  

February 28, 2007 

  /s/ John T. Ryan III
John T. Ryan III

  Chief Executive Officer

  /s/ Dennis L. Zeitler
  Dennis L. Zeitler
  Chief Financial Officer

  
Shareholders’ Inquiries and Organization

Section 302 Certifications and NYSE CEO Certification

Organization

In June 2006, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer

Continuing to add depth to its

submitted to the New York Stock Exchange the annual certifi-

executive management team in

cation as to compliance with the Exchange’s Corporate

2006, the Board of Directors

Governance Listing Standards required by Section 303A.12(a)

elected Paul R. Uhler a Vice

of the Exchange’s Listed Company Manual. The certification

President of the company.

was unqualified.

With more than 22 years of

operations expertise and HR

The Company’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange

experience, Paul joined the

Commission during the past year, including the Annual Report

company in 1984 and has held

on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, have

various positions in both the

contained the certifications of the Company’s Chief Executive

human resources and manufac-

Officer and Chief Financial Officer regarding the quality of the

turing arenas. Paul has also

Company’s public disclosure required by Section 302 of the

contributed to MSA’s global

Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

Shareholders’ Inquiries
Additional copies of the company’s 2006 Annual Report,

including Form 10-K, as filed with the Securities and Exchange

Commission, may be obtained by shareholders after April 1,

2007. Printed and electronic versions are available. Requests

should be directed to the Vice President-Finance, who can be

reached at one of the following:

success by taking both a leadership and consultant role on

the company’s Global Manufacturing Council. Most recently,

Paul was instrumental in implementing a comprehensive

reorganization of MSA’s HR department. The HR transfor-

mation was implemented to better align the department’s

programs, initiatives and people processes with MSA’s

strategic business goals.

Phone:

412-967-3046

Fax:

412-967-3367

Internet: MSAnet.com

U.S. Mail: MSA

Vice President-Finance

P. O. Box 426

Pittsburgh, PA 15230

5000-50

The Safety Company

Mine Safety Appliances Company

121 Gamma Drive

RIDC Industrial Park

O’Hara Township

Pittsburgh, PA 15238

412-967-3000

www.MSAnet.com